Schembri joins Haber at Ferencvaros

Malta midfielder André Schembri has signed a six-month deal with Hungarian club Ferencvaros after cancelling his contract with Austrian side SK Kaernten.

Schembri becomes the second Maltese player to join Fradi in the last few weeks, following the club's recent acquisition of goalkeeper Justin Haber from partner club Sheffield United.

Hungarian football fans may already recognise the name of Schembri. In 2006, the former Hibs and Marsaxlokk player hit a brace in Malta's historic 2-1 home victory over Hungary in a Euro 2008 qualifier.

"It's a great honour to sign for Ferencvaros FC, who are the most successful team in the history of Hungarian football," Schembri said.

"Budapest is a beautiful city and with Justin Haber here already, I think it will be easy for me to settle in.

"I can now look forward to working with manager Craig Short and the rest of the squad. I have no doubt that playing for such a high-profile club will take me to a new level as a player."

Ferencvaros completed Schembri's signing after recently returning from a warm weather training camp in Malta. Schembri had reportedly been on the verge of joining Blackpool in the English Championship but eventually decided to accept Ferencvaros's offer.

The 24-year-old is expected to make his debut for Ferencvaros in the home match against Haladas, on February 27, the club's first league commitment after the winter break. Ferencvaros are 11th in the 18-team league with 17 points from 15 matches.

Dave McCarthy, joint managing director of Ferencvaros, said: "We are confident that both Schembri and Haber will go on to prove important signings for Ferencvaros.

Their signings come during a period where the club is enjoying a growing affiliation with Malta."