Former Hyundai A-League attacker's surprise international call-up

Former Perth Glory and Sydney FC midfielder Mitch Mallia could be in line to make his international debut after earning a call-up to the Maltese national team.

The 25-year-old, currently with NSW NPL club Blacktown City, has been selected for Malta’s upcoming friendlies against Luxembourg and Finland later this month.

The attacker has been a consistent performer for Blacktown in recent seasons and his blistering form in the FFA Cup earned him a short-term contract with Perth Glory this season.

Brought in as an injury replacement for Joel Chianese, Mallia made six appearances and netted one goal for Kenny Lowe’s side.

Previously, Mallia spent three seasons with Sydney FC between 2011-14 and made 16 appearances, scoring one goal.

Mallia wouldn’t be the first Hyundai A-League player to represent Malta, with Melbourne City defender Manny Muscat and ex-Mariners midfielder John Hutchinson both capped by the Falcons at international level.

Former Melbourne Heart striker Michael Mifsud is the national team captain and remains the country’s all-time leading scorer.

Mitch Mallia
Mitch Mallia has been called up for Malta.