They may have lost their grip on the coveted third AFC Champions League spot, but Al Nasr head coach Ivan Jovanovic is refusing to press the panic button.
Nasr, long-term occupiers of what is likely to be the final place in the league standings offering Asian continental glory next season, were usurped by Al Wasl who went third on Friday night with a 1-1 draw at home to Emirates Club.
The Blue Wave lost 1-0 the following day at home to Al Shabab, whose win shunted them into a four-way battle for third spot, with Al Wahda also in the reckoning.
The Serb has seen his side win just two of their last eight league games, losing three, but is staying positive.
“Against Al Shabab we lost third position, but maybe it’s temporarily because we still have many games to play to try and win back this position,” said the 53-year-old, who admitted fatigue may be affecting his players but refused to use that as an excuse for recent form.
“Of course for many games played this season there is a lot of tiredness but we have a good mood to achieve a lot this year.
“Maybe losing this game is disappointing for a lot of people but the spirit of my players makes me happy. I cannot say anything to my players because I believe we make a good game.”
Having lost their grip on third place, however, Nasr face an uphill task to retrieve it with Al Jazira, Al Ain, Bani Yas and Al Ahli their next four opponents.
