WEYMOUTH director of football Paul Maitland confirmed that versatile defender Tiago Sa has signed a contract with the Terras for the upcoming season.
Sa, who continues his association with Weymouth having stepped up through the reserves’ ranks, was restricted mainly to substitute appearances last term behind first-choice left wing-back Callum Buckley.
And Maitland consequently challenged the young star to cement a position in the Terras’ starting line-up.
He told Echosport: “We’re hoping he continues his progress over the last couple of years. The challenge for Tiago will be to push on through and nail down a first-team spot.
“He’s made some really good progress, he’s a pleasure to work with and he takes on board what’s being asked from him.
“He works very hard in terms of his fitness, has a good attitude and he’s got a lot of potential to go on and do well.
“We’re hoping it’s potentially a big season for him and he can stamp his authority on a starting XI position.
“We’re pleased he’s signed for another year and continues his progress. If he does that, he’s a player with a big future.”
Maitland added that Sa’s versatility made him a particularly useful asset within the Terras’ squad.
He said: “That’s one of the beauties with him.
“He’s a left-back or a wing-back and can play on the right-hand side or in midfield. He always gives us great versatility.
“Sometimes that counts against players, being moved around, but the work we’ve done with him is predominantly as a left-sided defender and midfielder.
“The way we play, the attributes are similar in both positions. He can do both of those things.
“Fitness-wise there’s no issue with Tiago, he keeps himself in good condition. He’s a young lad, still learning the game and understanding his own game.”
Weymouth began pre-season on Tuesday.
Maitland also feels that the Weymouth squad is beginning the 2018/19 campaign with no guarantees on starting berths.
He said: “Everyone’s starting on a clean slate and everyone has to prove their value that they’re worthy of a starting position.
“The competition is high and the players we’ve added have added to the quality we’ve got.
“We’ve got six weeks now to put it all together and see where it takes us.”
