Luton Town Ladies’ number 11, Fiona Buttigieg, has been called up to represent Malta Women in their Nations League double header against Georgia.
Fi made her international debut back in February, when she came off the bench in the 79th minute in a 2-1 defeat against Cyprus.
After impressing on her debut, just four days later, Fi was rewarded with her first international start, playing 59 minutes and keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory over Andorra.
This time around, Malta face Georgia away on Friday 4th April, with a 3PM kick-off and then again, at home on Tuesday 8th April with a 6pm kick-off, as they look to push for promotion to the Women’s Nations League B. (Kick-off times in GMT).
Since returning from international duty, the full-back has been in fine form, scoring two goals and providing two assists in five games.
Luton’s set piece specialist isn’t taking the opportunity for granted, saying: “I feel very grateful to be given another opportunity to represent Malta and play football at an international level. It’s something not a lot of people get to say they’ve done, so it feels just as special as the first time.”
The hard work doesn’t end there for Fi, who acknowledged the challenge the busy schedule with the Hatters upon her return: “I’m really looking forward to the experience and challenges ahead, whilst working hard to stay fit for my return to the busy schedule coming up at the end of the season with Luton.”
Member of Luton Town Ladies’ coaching staff and husband of Fi, Danny Buttigieg, gave his thoughts on Fi’s call-up: “Getting an international call-up is an achievement in itself, but to get back-to-back call ups shows the level of talent and commitment Fi has!
“Being her husband and her coach, we have a dynamic that most don’t, but it also means I get to see how hard she works away from the pitch and out of the limelight.
“These opportunities are earned, not handed out and Fi continues to show girls in and around Luton, what they can achieve with the right mindset and approach. I’m one proud Maltese, husband and coach!”
Luton Town Ladies’ co-managerial duo Myles Maddix and Fadi Mazloum also gave their thoughts on Fi’s call-up: “We’re delighted to hear and see Fi getting another international call-up for Malta.
"It shows that her hard work and dedication isn’t going unnoticed. She gets to represent her country on the big stage, with two games and potentially adding two more caps, and we are looking forward to her return.”
Everyone at Luton Town is incredibly proud of Fi and wishes her and the Malta Women’s team, the best of luck!
Words: Owen Williams
Photo: Duncan Jack
Visit the Luton Town Ladies website - www.lutontownladiesfc.co.uk
