𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖: 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐒 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐀𝐂𝐇 𝐉𝐄𝐀𝐍 𝐏𝐀𝐔𝐋 𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐑𝐀

As the youths head coach, what key strategies and philosophies are you introducing to the squad this season?

I have been introduced to a squad of players full of talents. I realized that I could implement my style of game and built an identity to this team. We are working hard on this and in these first months we are already seeing signs of our style of play. There is always room for improvement and the players are hungry to give more, that motivates me to work even harder. I do believe that Floriana has to impose the game, create opportunities and enjoy/entertain playing football with a definite mark. It’s not easy…but that’s why we need to be patient and let them develop in their own time.

Finally, my philosophy is to create a family with values working for each other putting in practice what we train for and ensuring a winning mentality.

Floriana F.C were promoted to Section A following an absence of a number of years. The impact of the team in the first two games was excellent. Do you believe there is still room for improvement from this team?

The first two games were encouraging. Apart from the results, we could see that the team is responding well to what we want from them. It’s not over yet and the finish line is far from being close. That’s why we need to put head on the ground and work.

Section ‘A’ is a different story. It offers a good level and players want to prove themselves and games are never over even if you re winning with a good margin.

Room for improvement is always there and we need to put the players in a situation to show their best of abilities.

Besides the responsibilities of the youths team you are also part of the seniors technical staff together with several experienced figures in the local game. Will this help you develop further in your coaching career?

I have been working with senior players for the last 12 years and it’s always an ongoing challenge. I have coached as a head coach and assistant coach and learning is never enough…no matter how experienced one coach is.

It’s always a pleasure and honor sharing the dressing room with great players and good technical staff and head coach like Floriana is proud to have.

Having worked at other local clubs previous to this experience, what does this club bring different than others?

Floriana is a big club. The first minute I stepped in, I could smell hunger of success and the winning mentality both from the administration and supporters.

The media is just impressive and the level of organisation within the admin makes you work in a healthy environment.

Finally, what aims and objectives do you have for the season in both the two roles?

As a youth headcoach I would like to see the young players develop more their talent and why not…be competitive till the end in the league. Seeing players debuting with the senior team will be a great satisfaction.

With the senior team, I am there to be at the service to the headcoach and the players, hopefully ending up the season on a high adding another silverware at the club.