Jackie Grech
A Gzira United product, Jackie Grech joined Valletta FC from Hibernians in season 1952-53. He was only 19 years old when he joined the Lilywhites.
Valletta were rebuilding a new squad after dominating the last years of the 40s. At first, he only played a handful of matches but in 1953-54 and 54-55 he was very active for the team and soon became an automatic choice in the line-up.
Jackie helped the team win the 1958/59 league title and also the Cassar Cup in those early days of the Forza Valletta City song.
But, the following season Grech failed to make a showing for the team to the great disappointment of the fans as he decided to cut short his career.
Jackie was introduced to the First Division by Hibernians as a midfielder and played 12 matches in all for the Paolites, including the two-time replayed FA Trophy final against Sliema Wanderers (3-3, 1-1, 0-1).
Grech, who was 70 when he died, will be mostly remembered for his valuable contribution to Valletta’s revival in the 50s. He also played twice for the national team – against Denmark XI and Italy Youths
