Al Ahli’s stuttering Arabian Gulf League title defence will not affect their confidence coming into tonight’s clash with Al Jazira, according to coach Cosmin Olaroiu.

The Red Knights have won two, drawn two and lost one of their opening matches to sit off the pace set by leaders Al Wahda and Jazira.

“We always aspire to reach the first place,” the Romanian said.

“We have a long way to go in the league, the team has demonstrated the possibility of better performances.

“Al Jazira are three points ahead of us and are one of the main contenders for the title this season but it is still early, so we are not concerned by the rankings at this stage.”

Defenders Walid Abbas and Essa Santo are racing to prove their fitness, while the match may come too soon for midfielder Majed Hassan.

Opponents Jazira edged a thrilling Al Clasico against their Abu Dhabi rivals prior to the international break, continuing a promising start under Eric Gerets.

The Belgian said: “After the last game, everyone is hungry to play. If we manage to have a good result there, we put them in a difficult situation." 

Winger Jonathan Pitroipa returned from international duty with Burkina Faso yesterday. Playmaker Manuel Lanzini is nursing an injured foot, and will need to come through training.