Following a number of speculative reports that have appeared in the local and British press regarding the possibility of a 'Steel City' football derby to be held in Malta this Summer, between Sheffield United FC and Sheffield Wednesday FC, the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) would like to clarify the following points:

The MTA was aware of the fact that Sheffield United FC intended to organize a Summer training camp in Malta in July.

More recently, the MTA was also approached by Sheffield Wednesday FC with a view to organising a training camp in Malta this Summer, wherein SWFC fans would be also invited to come along with the team for a holiday.

The MTA took it upon itself to approach both parties with the idea of organising a football game between the two teams, a 'Steel City derby', if the dates proposed by both teams could coincide or overlap.

Naturally, due to the great, long-standing rivalry that exists between the two clubs, a good many logistical factors would first need to be discussed in depth and settled beforehand, not least being the issue of security.

To date, formal talks still need to initiated between all the parties concerned and nothing is as yet decided or a fait accompli. All those involved are very aware of the various implications inherent in such an initiative and feel that it would be premature at this point to add any ulterior information or to issue any further statements.

Any decisions that may be taken regarding this proposal will be communicated by the MTA in due course.

Kevin J. Drake

Director

Communications & PR

Malta Tourism Authority