Denilson, 27, joined the Clarets from Brazilian giants Sao Paulo last summer and has cut an authorative figure in recent weeks as Javier Aguirre’s men close on the AFC Champions League qualification spots, culminating with Friday’s dominant 1-0 win over Al Nasr.

The former Arsenal midfielder’s family have settled with him in Abu Dhabi and he believed this has been key to his success.

“I am very happy here, my family as well,” said Denilson, who has scored once in 17 league appearances. “This was more important for me as my family, my son and my wife are very happy here. I just focus on my work – that is why I came. It is not about just the life, I have safety here but you have to work.

“I come to work and to enjoy, also. It is an amazing country. You can go to Dubai or stay in Abu Dhabi. You can go anywhere.

“In my work, I just focus 100 per cent and give my best all the time in training and in games.”

The triumph against the Blue Wave was of strategic importance, as they hold third place which is likely to be the last qualification spot to Asia’s elite club competition earned through the league.

Wahda hold a three-point deficit to them in fifth, with Denilson confidently looking ahead to Friday’s daunting trip to second-placed Al Ahli.

He said: “This is a big three points because it is always very hard to play against Al Nasr. It was a very tough game.

“We started well and scored quickly. Mister (coach Aguirre) talked to us before the match and said this game was the most important. We had to focus against Nasr, as if they had won we would have lost so many points to them.

“Now, we have time to think about the next game at Al Ahli.”