Javier Aguirre wants more of the same from Jorge Valdivia

Denzil Pinto 07:52 28/12/2015
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  • Job well done: Jorge Valdivia.

    Al Wahda coach Javier Aguirre was thrilled to see playmaker Jorge Valdivia show signs of his potential against Bani Yas, and hopes he maintains that form in 2016. 

    Valdivia has not had the best of starts this season since his Dh24.3 million summer move from Palmeiras after guiding Chile to their maiden Copa America title. 

    Injuries and long-haul trips to South America for the World Cup qualifiers has hampered his progress in the UAE.

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    But the 32-year-old showed glimpses of his talent, scoring his third goal of the season, and playing a key role as Wahda salvaged a 2-2 draw against Bani Yas in the AGL.

    It was no surprise that Aguirre was impressed by what he saw on Saturday night and hopes it’s the start of things to come.

    “Valdivia has improved and is improving game by game,” said the Mexican. 

    “From the beginning when he arrived here, he had injuries and then played for Chile but now he’s doing well and played very well. 

    “Of course he can continue his form. I hope he can. He is now fit and there are no long trips for Chile in the future and he’s happy with us. He’s working with us and as a coach it cannot be better.”

    Striker Sebastian Tagliabue was encouraged by Valdivia’s display. “Valdivia is a very important player for us,” said the 30-year-old.

    “I need him and so does the team. If he plays well and gives his best performances then it’s all good for the club.”

    The draw leaves the Clarets 14 points behind leaders Al Ain. While Aguirre had said there’s still hope of clinching their fifth league crown, Tagliabue insists his team-mates will take each game as it comes bef-ore they even think about of winning the title.

    “We have to take it game by game because third and fourth place is achieveable,” said the Argentine. “But we’ll carry on playing and see where we are when it comes to the later rounds.”

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