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Al Ain v Al Jazira Pre-Match Press Conferences

Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s ‘clash of the titans’ as top-of-the-League Al Ain host 2nd-placed Al Jazira, Al Ain’s coach Cosmin Olaroiu emphasised the need for focus, resolve and determination for his side to overcome their rivals in the title race ‘six-pointer’. The Romanian noted that Al Jazira’s change of manager could bring a psychological lift to their side as players try their best to impress their new coach and prove their abilities, however Al Ain will focus on their own game and not consider such influences.

One player who has been making headlines for Al Ain in recent weeks is Omar Abdulrahman, and Cosmin reiterated his delight at having such a talented player in his ranks. “I have great confidence in ‘Amoory’ and I would love to have more players like him at Al Ain. He has huge potential and could play in some of the strongest teams in any league in Europe, and this is my wish for him.” Coach Cosmin also expressed gratitude to one of his players who has already plied his trade in one of the top European leagues – Asamoah Gyan: “Gyan has a minor injury and it is risk for him to play a full match; he surprised me by offering not to participate against Al Hilal in midweek so as not to disadvantage the team. This shows great courage and respect for his fellow teammates, but his participation in Sunday’s game will be determined in the team’s technical meeting,” Cosmin said.

In the opposing dugout, new Al Jazira manager Luis Milla is looking forward to an ‘El Clasico’-style match, which offers his team the chance to close the gap behind Al Ain to just three points at the top of the table. Milla recognises Al Ain’s strong backbone of an organised defense and dynamic attack, featuring dangerous players such as Omar Abdulrahman, Asamoah Gyan, Alex Brosque and Jires Kembo-Ekoko. The Spaniard will start with a similar team to the one he fielded against Tractorsazi Tabriz during their midweek AFC Champions League trip to Iran, stating: “We will maintain the shape of the team who played in Tabriz because of the short space of time between the two games. There is not much time to prepare for such a big game and I will need longer to impose my philosophy on the team.” Milla has an almost full complement of players to select from for the top-of-the-table clash, with only Salem Ali missing due to suspension for collecting three yellow cards.