Caruana Curran takes up the challenge

Now it's official. Joe Caruana Curran, the former Valletta FC president, will contest the election for the Malta FA president to be held during the association's annual general meeting at the end of this month.

Caruana Curran, 46, yesterday ended all speculation surrounding his intentions to contest Dr Joe Mifsud for the top job in Maltese football when he filed his nomination at the MFA offices in Valletta.

Contacted by The Times , Caruana Curran said the overtures of a number of officials from local clubs convinced him to run for the MFA presidency.

"I have been contacted by several people involved in local football who strongly believe that it's time that the Malta FA renewed itself at the very top," Caruana Curran said.

"I am confident in my abilities to contribute to the progress of Maltese football, given my experience in the local game as well as in other sectors of the business field."

Although Caruana Curran, a household name in Maltese football by virtue of the success enjoyed by Valletta FC during his 18 years as club president, is very positive about his prospects of winning the backing of the majority of the clubs and the other associations affiliated to the MFA, he readily acknowledges that the race will be very tough.

"It's going to be difficult and I know that. Dr Mifsud enjoys significant support among the clubs but I have been heartened by the vibes emanating from several clubs and member associations regarding my nomination to contest the MFA presidency," he said.

"Over the next few days, I am planning to hold meetings with the committee members of clubs to explain my vision for the future of Maltese football."

Dr Mifsud has already made it known that he will seek a re-election as MFA president for another three-year term. This is the first time in his 12 years' tenure at the helm of the MFA that Dr Mifsud faces a challenge from another candidate.

At last Monday's council meeting, Dr Mifsud said he was determined to keep working for the good of the game and believes he has more to offer after a long career in football administration stretching over 37 years.