Former Valletta midfielder Henier Backhaus, of Germany, has joined Hamrun Spartans.

It is the second signing by the Spartans in a few days after they acquired the services of Gianluca Calabretta, who was with Tarxien Rainbows until the past season.

Calabretta, considered by many as one of the most talented youngsters in the local game, is the grandson of the late former Hamrun Spartans president Victor Tedesco.

Backhaus had played for Valletta in season 2007-2008 and had helped the club with their 19th championship.

The Spartans, who earlier named former City team manager Jesmond Zammit as their new coach, are expected to make some other signings in their build up to the new season.