Summer Loving

The transfer window had only been open for 1 week when the press had been called to the Coastal city of Benidorm for a press conference, rumours were that Gibney had made his first signing of the summer.

Rumours were flying about names like Miguel Veloso, Charlie Davies, Paulo Ferreira...about 20 players had been linked in the last 7 days.


What a surprise it was when 4 players were introduced to the waiting media.
First out was Spanish midfielder Sergio Matabuena.

Released from Sporting Gijon Matabuena is a defensive midfielder who is not afraid of a tackle earning him the nickname of Matabuena Gattuso, Gibney is hoping he will add needed bit to the Benidorm midfield.

Next out was American midfielder Ricardo Clark.

Ricardo has 23 caps for the US national side, it seems Gibney plans to toughen up his side, Clark was once suspended for 9 games over an incident in a game against Dallas, Clark violently kicked Dallas player Carlos Ruiz, and was recently sent off against Italy in the Confederations Cup after a kick at Gattuso.


The 3rd signing announced was ex Juventus defender Jonathan Zebina, recently released from the Turin club, he was happy to join Gibney's revolution.

Zebina who plays mostly as a Right Back, can also operate at Centre Back, he will add power and strength to the Benidormida back line, and must needed experience playing over 80 games for Roma and 50 games.

The 4th and final signing no one saw coming, rumours were Gibney was looking for an experienced keeper, no one could have guessed who would walk out.
Former Brazilian #1 Nelson de Jesus Silva, otherwise known as DIDA.

After playing 182 games for Milan and 91 games for Brazil, the legendary goalkeeper makes his move to Spain, hoping for one last chance of glory with Benidormida.

How long will Dida continue to play no one knows, but he will add some flair, character and experience to the Spanish side, something they need when embarking on their first season of top-flight football.


You could see the delight in Gibney's face when he was standing with his new recruits, the scary thought is the window is open for another 7 weeks, who else will make his way though the Benidormida doors.