Second Division side Hamrun Spartans FC presented their new signings during a press conference held on Friday at the Eurosport outlet in Birkirkara.
Vice-president Gaetano Debattista stated that following the misfortune of being relegated at the end of last season, the present committee left no stone unturned to strengthen the squad for the coming season with the signing of seven new players. These together with our homegrown players should make a very competitive team to enable Hamrun to achieve their main objective, that of returning to the First Division by the end of this season.
The club appointed Stephen D’ Amato as their new coach. Debattista said that D’ Amato, apart from having coached a number of Premier League clubs, is also familiar to the club environment as he has already coached Hamrun Spartans in the recent past.
Team manager Kenneth Cefai went on to present team captain Ryan Spiteri and the new signings, namely Aaron Attard, Andre White, Alan Tabone, Christian Cacciatolo, Evano Briffa, Simon Shead and Nigerian Saturday Nanapere.
Cefai thanked all his technical staff which is formed by coach Stephen D’ Amato, assistant coach Renzo Kerr Cumbo, goalkeepers coach Mark Tabone and kit manager Clint Fabri who is assisted by Leonard Zammit for their valuable contribution to the club.
Steve D’Amato thanked the committee for their efforts in assembling such a strong and competitive squad in its goal to gain promotion. He also commended his players for their dedication and discipline shown during the preseason period which will undoubtedly be two main factors to achieve their target.
Club administrator Joseph Bugeja gave a very brief overview on the current club situation. He explained that this committee is in its second year of its three-year plan and that the club is moving in the right direction. He stressed that although the club is cautious in keeping to its budget, it still invests where necessary. He also urged members and supporters to give their support to the team and participate in event and activities which are organized by the supporters club.
Gaetano Debattista finally thanked those present and Eurosport for accepting to host this event at their premises. He even showed his appreciation to Eurosport and Powerade, the club’s main sponsors for their financial support.