Gerets seeking to avoid distractions as they chase down Al Ain

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  • Ambitious goals: Eric Gerets.

    Al Jazira are adopting tunnel vision as they seek to avoid any distractions in their quest to overhaul Arabian Gulf League leaders Al Ain, says boss Eric Gerets.

    The Pride of Abu Dhabi have seven games to claw back a four-point deficit, beginning with tonight’s searching trip to fifth-placed Al Nasr.

    “I do not and will not think about Al Ain at the moment,” the Belgian said. “We will focus entirely on ourselves, stressing the importance of achieving wins in all our remaining matches. We have to ignore everything.”

    Jazira will be anxious about the availability of UAE defensive midfielder Khamis Esmail because of a thigh problem, while veteran centre-back Basheer Saeed and fullback Khalid Sabeel are suspended.

    Meanwhile, Al Ain will be looking to get back to winning ways when they travel to third-bottom Emirates Club this evening. The Boss – who drew 1-1 at Al Dhafra last week – are in the midst of a hectic schedule, containing top flight, Arabian Gulf Super Cup and AFC Champions League commitments.

    “It is in a short space of time after we beat Pakhtakor in Uzbekistan, a victory we have not had the opportunity to celebrate,” coach Zlatko Dalic said. “All the tournaments are important, but we are only thinking about Emirates Club.”

    Sami Al Jaber has insisted the belief he is the right man for Al Wahda remains steadfast despite a disastrous start to his tenure.

    The Saudi Arabia icon – who currently holds the title of technical director – has overseen a winless trio of AGL games and elimination from the AFC Champions League since replacing controversially sacked boss Jose Peseiro last month.

    “I feel confident since I stepped inside the club as I got support from the highest persons here,” said Al Jaber, who has a golden chance to secure a maiden win against second-bottom Ajman tonight.

    “They give me full confidence. “There are no excuses, we just keep working. I am so happy to join this group of players, with high discipline and high spirits.”

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