VIDEO: ‘I learned a lot from my spell with Spartak Trnava’

 Jean Paul Farrugia’s time in Slovakian football may have been brief but the Sliema Wanderers striker looks back on his six-month spell with Spartak Trnava in a positive way as he feels that the experience of playing on a professional basis benefited his career. It was back in the summer of 2014 when Farrugia agreed to join Spartak Trnava on loan after leaving a very positive impression on the coaching staff while playing for Hibs against the Slovakian team in the Europa League. “I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to be part of the professional set-up of Spartak Trnava,” Farrugia, who turned 25 earlier this week, told “It was an experience that I learned a lot from but it will not make any difference just because we are are playing against Slovakia. Regardless of the opposition, I go out on the pitch with the same mentality.” Farrugia, who is a contender to start tonight’s 2018 World Cup Group F qualifier against Slovakia at the National Stadium (kick-off 8.45pm), is pleased with the Maltese squad’s preparations for this difficult encounter. “In terms of prepartions, this week we had double sessions which is very professional,” Farrugia. “We have been taking it step by step and prepare as best as we could.” The Sliema Wanderers striker called on the fans to rally behind the national team. “Our fans have always behind the team,” he said. “These games are nice occasions and if we manage to ge a good result, the memories will linger for a long time. I believe that every Maltese who feels proud should come to the stadium and give us their support.”