Marsaxlokk's unwavering ambition to become a force to be reckoned with in Maltese football was abundantly demonstrated yesterday when they officially presented their latest high-profile signing, Englishman Chris Bart-Williams.

A former England U-21 international, Bart-Williams spent the best years of his career in the top tiers of English football but his desire to sample new experiences was the key factor to his decision in accepting Mar-saxlokk's offer.

Last season, Bart-Williams was engaged with Cyprus club Apoel Nicosia but his sojourn in Maltese football promises to be longer as the 31-year-old utility man has committed himself to Marsaxlokk for the next three years.

"I am pleased to have joined this wonderful club," Bart-Williams said during his presentation at the offices of Carmelo Abela and Sons, main sponsors of Marsaxlokk through their brand Mutti.

"I have been fortunate to have played for many good clubs in my career and Marsaxlokk are one of them."

Although he's only been here for a few days, Bart-Williams will have needed no-one to remind him that the standard of Maltese football is a far cry from that of leagues in top European countries. For him though, football is not just about glamour.

"Football is not an exclusive game, it's played by people of every calibre," Bart-Williams said.

"Personally, my move to Malta is something new, a fresh challenge and I have already learnt things I didn't know about the culture and the lifestyle of the Maltese people.

"From what I've seen so far, I can also say that the technical ability of the players here is as good as that of their English counterparts."

Marsaxlokk, or rather the Sciriha family, have spent a fortune on new players in the last few years but they have yet to extract a tangible return for their investment.

The southseasiders will be hoping that the presence of an experienced player like Bart-Williams will not only leave a positive effect on his younger team-mates but will also help them win some silverware.

Bart-Williams is unperturbed by the challenge awaiting him.

"I'm a winner and a very bad loser for that matter," he stated.

"Let's say that it's going to be an interesting challenge for me playing for Marsaxlokk. I have been im-pressed by the talent of the young players in our squad and the future of this team looks bright. They lack experience but I think I can help them in that aspect. I regard myself as a bossy player, the type who likes to be in the forefront in order to make things happen for the team."

Club president Mark Sciriha and Stephen Abela, on behalf of the sponsors, both expressed their delight at Marsaxlokk's success in luring a high-profile player like Bart-Williams.

He is expected to make his debut in their opening league match against Hamrun on Thursday.