Dimech asks to be left out of Malta squad

Luke Dimech has asked permission from the MFA to pull out of the International Tournament to be staged at Ta' Qali between February 14 and 18. The 27-year-old Dimech has informed Ivan Vella, the national teams' secretary, that he preferred not to be...

Luke Dimech has asked permission from the MFA to pull out of the International Tournament to be staged at Ta' Qali between February 14 and 18.

The 27-year-old Dimech has informed Ivan Vella, the national teams' secretary, that he preferred not to be considered for squad selection for the tournament.

Dimech wants to concentrate on his club career after winning back his place in Mansfield's first team. The former Sliema defender signed a one-year deal with English Division Three club last summer.

Malta coach Horst Heese had said that Dimech figured in his plans for next month's event. Contacted yesterday, Heese said he will discuss Dimech's request with his assistant Carmel Busuttil before taking a decision.

"Dimech prefers to stay with his club as he does not want to jeopardise his playing chances," Heese said. "We understand his position but these games are important for our preparations for the World Cup qualifiers."

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