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Al Shaab v Bani Yas Pre-Match Press Conferences

Speaking in a pre-match press conference ahead of his side’s match against Bani Yas, Al Shaab coach Marius Sumudica was well aware of the tough test the visiting team will pose. “We know the difficulty of facing Bani Yas, but we will adopt a fighting spirit and determination in the team in order to try and achieve a positive result.” Al Shaab, who currently sit 12th in the League and three points from the danger zone, will have to do without several players for the game, however Sumudica is confident that the squad will be able to cope with the absences as they face a very good Bani Yas team. The Romanian highlighted the Bani Yas squad as being one of the strongest in the Etisalat Pro League, boasting talents such as Amer Abdulrahman and the January signing Mohamed Aboutrika, who has added a new strength to the team.

 

Opposing coach Josef Chovanec also noted the importance of the game for both sides, as his Bani Yas team tries to keep up the chase with Al Jazira in second and Al Ain at the top of the table. “We know it will be difficult to face Al Shaab at this time, as they seek to gain three more points to take them further away from the relegation places, especially after their positive result against Dibba Al Fujairah last week,” said the Czech manager.

 

Chovanec revealed that Bani Yas will miss the services of Senegalese striker Andre Senghor for the game, in addition to goalkeeper Mohammad Ghuloom who is unwell. There is also a possibility that Swedish star signing Christian Wilhelmsson may miss the game due to family circumstances, but Chovanec has full trust in any players who will step up to a starting role in their absence.