Al Jazira coach Eric Gerets has heaped praise on Abu Dhabi rivals Al Wahda, claiming he is not surprised to see them top the Arabian Gulf League.
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The Clarets have gone nearly a year unbeaten in the league, a 20- game run that stretches back to January 23 when they lost 2-1 to Emirates.
They finished second last season, albeit by a distance to runaway champions Al Ahli, and they are currently fending off the challenge of their neighbours as they head the table by a point from Jazira.
Wahda have only lost once in 13 games in all competitions this season, their only black mark a 3-1 loss to champions Al Ahli in the League Cup and former Belgium international Gerets believes the key to Wahda’s success is their discipline.
“I don’t think it’s such a big surprise, because they finished second last season,” said Gerets.
“For me it’s not a big surprise seeing, feeling, noticing that they are at the top of the table again, because maybe they are the best disciplined of all teams in the UAE.”
With only a point separating the two capital sides, the Pride of Abu Dhabi boss says the championship is still on and that future mistakes will prove costly.
He added: “They cannot afford mistakes like we cannot afford to make mistakes. At the end, whoever makes the least mistakes will have a big chance to win the title.”
Jazira’s Brazilian midfielder Jucilei Da Silva scored his first goal of the season in Friday’s 3-2 Abu Dhabi derby win over Bani Yas, but despite rediscovering his ability in front of goal, says he would play in any position if it would help them win the title.
“I was very happy to score my first goal in the league and help Jazira acquire the three points, which was very important for us,” said the 26-year-old former Anzhi Makhachkala player.
“We have made defensive mistakes but thankfully the coach has fixed the situation and everything is going smoothly now.
“Regarding my situation, I have played in defence before in Russia so I will be very comfortable if the coach needs me to play there.
“I will make any sacrifice needed to help Jazira do well this season.”