Boss Ivan Jovanovic is convinced Al Nasr do not need to splash the cash like their Arabian Gulf League rivals to claim the title.
The Blue Wave have been quiet during the January transfer window, Wednesday’s low-key recruitment of Bani Yas pair Massoud Suleiman and Ahmed Khamis their only forays into the market thus far.
In contrast, second-placed Al Ahli have made the eye-catching capture of UAE defensive midfielder Khamis Esmail and champions Al Ain have purchased J League marksman Douglas and Colombian flyer Danilo Asprilla.
Nasr are firmly in the hunt for the trophy in third ahead of Friday’s visit of Al Dhafra and Jovanovic declared he did not need any superstar additions to give them a boost.
He said: “Of course, every team programmes transfers for themselves. What interests me is as a team, how we can cover the postions we need so we can be better in the second part of the league.
“I believe we are a good team. One thing for me as a coach is I enjoy my job here with my players.”
Meanwhile, Al Jazira boss Henk ten Cate is sure Abdulla Mousa can become one of the best central defenders in the Emirates.
Mousa, a UAE international, was the forgotten man under Abel Braga. He was, however, given a starring role in the centre of defence in Ten Cate’s first match, a 2-2 draw with Al Wasl last Friday, and the Dutchman believes he is getting stronger as a player.
“Abdulla is improving in his position a lot,” said Ten Cate, ahead of tomorrow’s clash against Sharjah. “After such a long time not playing or training, I enjoy watching him in training and he’s getting better. He’s not 100 per cent but he gives everything he has.
“When he is 100 per cent, I think he will be one of the best central defenders in the country.”
