Bani Yas coach Abdulwahab Abdulqadir is optimistic his players will gain inspiration from meeting the club chairman and keep their slim relegation hopes alive, beginning with Friday’s must-win match against Al Nasr.

The bottom side travel to the President’s Cup finalists, knowing they must pick up maximum points from their remaining three matches and retain faith results go their way if they want to preserve their spot in the Arabian Gulf League. The Sky Blues, who drew their last two matches, were addressed by chairman Ahmed Nasser Al Raisi earlier this week and Abdulqadir wanted his words to be taken on board.

“He gave a speech to the players and he requested them to double their efforts for this match,” he said. “As coach, I hope they can be inspired by his visit at the training ground because there’s still hope.”

Ittihad Kalba and Dibba Al Fujairah sit directly above the drop zone, both on 18 points – five more than Bani and Emirates Club. Wins for either will secure their top-flight status.

Yo-yo club Kalba face a pivotal clash at second-bottom Emirates, while Dibba – who haven’t triumphed in five games – host high-flying Al Wasl.

Al Shabab boss Miroslav Djukic will be looking for a debut victory at the 10th time of asking in all competitions, at home to Al Dhafra.

AGL fixtures

Friday

18:00 Al Shabab v Al Dhafra

20:45 Dibba Al Fujairah v Al Wasl

20:45 Emirates Club v Ittihad Kalba

20:45 Al Nasr v Bani Yas

Saturday

18:00 Hatta v Al Jazira

18:00 Al Ahli v Sharjah

20:45 Al Ain v Al Wahda