The death was announced on Wednesday of former St George's and Hibernians striker Charlie Cassar. He was 51.

Born in Marsaxlokk on October 31, 1958 Cassar was regarded as one of the most exciting Maltese strikers of the eighties.

Cassar started playing football with his home town club Marsaxlokk FC in 1972-73. In those days, the southseasiders were in the lower divisions of Maltese football and it was clear that with his natural talent, Cassar was destined for bigger things.

During his spell with Marsaxlokk, Cassar was selected three times to play for Malta's Under-18 XI. In 1977, he left Marsaxlokk for St George's who played in the First Division.

Cassar spent four seasons with the Saints during which he finished as the club's top scorer in 1979-80 with 13 goals.

During his stay with St George's, he played his only game for Malta's A side against Libya. Then, in 1981-82, Cassar moved to Hibernians. It was with the Paolites that he reached his peak.

A fast and tricky forward in the mould of former Valletta and Malta striker Nardu Farrugia, Cassar could create as well as score goals. In his nine years with Hibernians, he scored 26 goals in 66 first-team matches.

His best season was 1981-82 when he helped Hibs to win the league and cup double for the first and only time in the club's history.

In 1988, he joined Luqa St Andrew's on loan and finished the season as Third Division top scorer with 17 goals.

Another short spell with Hibs followed before he returned to Marsaxlokk where he finished his career. Cassar also served on the club's committee.