Brazilian goalkeeper Tom seeking new challenge in Malta after leaving Ħamrun Spartans

Brazilian goalkeeper Tom is keen to continue his career in Maltese football after his contract with champions Ħamrun Spartans was not extended.

Tom has been on the books of Ħamrun Spartans for the past 18 months, after joining the Reds in January last year and formed part of the squad that won two Premier League titles and the Super Cup.

Last season, Tom was one of three goalkeepers available for former Ħamrun coach Luciano Zauri as he battled for the number one jersey with Henry Bonello and Federico Marchetti.

Tom is the second goalkeeper who left the Spartans last month former Italy international Marchetti also announced that he is seeking pastures new after parting ways with the ten-time Malta champions.

“I have very fond memories of my time with Ħamrun Spartans,” Tom told the Times of Malta.

“During the past two seasons, the team managed to win three titles – two Premier League championships and the Super Cup. We achieved our goals and playing in a Champions League qualifier was the realisation of a big dream.

“I was part of a successful group of players, and together with them, I won three trophies and more importantly winning the first star on the club’s shirt was incredible.

“I will never forget everything that I have achieved at Ħamrun Spartans, the fans supported me from start to finish and always passed positive energy onto the field.”

Throughout his career, Tom has installed a special friendship with one of the greatest goalkeepers of recent times, former Brazil and Milan shot-stopper Nelson Dida.

Dida, who defended the Brazil goal in two World Cups as well as winning two Champions League titles and the Club World Cup with AC Milan, came to know Tom during the latter’s spell at Brazilian club Portuguesa.

“I met Tom when I returned to Brazil to sign with Portuguesa after 10 years with Milan,” Dida said.

“It was a very good environment, with a lot of dedication. With me, in addition to Tom, were also Gledson and Alex Gregorio, the goalkeepers’ coach. When I saw this tall and thin goalkeeper, I realized he had many of my characteristics. Safe, fast, and with good technique being able to make incredible saves. He communicated well and got along well with his companions.”

“At the time he was curious to play outside Brazil, now that he has had this experience, I hope he enters European football, perhaps here in Italy, which now recognize the Brazilian goalkeepers as one of the strongest of today’s football,” added Dida about Tom.

With the end of the football season in the old continent, the Brazilian goalkeeper wants to enjoy the family and study new possibilities within the Maltese and European football.

“My spell with Ħamrun Spartans is over and now it’s time to find a new experience, keep working hard here on the island and enjoy the summer holidays in Malta with my family while I wait for the market.

“Some clubs have shown interest in keeping me here, but nothing is confirmed yet. I want to keep myself prepared for the next challenge, whether in Malta or elsewhere.”