Sparky’s Column

You Can't Keep a Good Man Down

You can't keep a good man down and Diego Maradona has surfaced again in the UAE. He has a new ambassadorial role with Dubai Sports Council. It should be an idea role for such an international icon and will ensure that any DSC events receive maximum publicity. Diego did mention that he would have to sell his Ferrari when he left Dubai but happily for him the new role means he keeps the car for another 12 months at least. 

 

Al Ain has made a tremendous signing in the shape of Jires Kembo Ekoko, the Frenchman is fresh from a strong season in League 1 and is a former under 21 international. He is only 24 and in a league where the majority of the overseas players are in the twilight of their careers this is a huge bonus. Al Ain easily has the youngest overseas contingent of any club in the top division and in a newly extended league program this could prove the tipping point. The club is clearly planning for an assault on the Champions League as well as domestic dominance.

 

Lucas Neil will have a point to prove after signing for Al Wasl. When someone is released from a club it serves as motivation to prove his former employers wrong. Bare left Al Ahli and went onto win the league with Al Jazira, likewise with Biano when he took the title with Al Wahda. The most recent example is Yeste who had a great second half to the season with Bani Yas after being surplus to requirements at Maradona's Al Wasl. If Neil is typical of any Australian sportsmen then the mentality this season will be to prove that his former employers made the wrong decision in letting him go. 

 

The most important games of the year arguably take play pre season. The play off's to decide who plays in the Etisalat Pro League next season are absolutely huge. Sharjah and Emirates Club have the top flight experience but Al Shaab and Al Dhafra have the momentum of a strong finish to last season. All clubs will have made personnel changes since the end of last term making the games almost impossible to call.  The prize at stake is more money, more media exposure and the chance to compete in the top division. The games will only happen this season making it a unique football UAE football event.