Riyadh: Oman keeper Ali Al Habsi said he’s delighted to return to Gulf Cup action against the UAE on Friday, having missed the last two editions of the eight-team regional contest.
English sides Bolton Wanderers and Wigan Athletic refused to release the competition’s five-time Golden Glove winner because the event isn’t Fifa recognised.
However, his latest team, Brighton & Hove Albion, with whom he’s currently on loan, have agreed to let him return to the tournament where he made his name.
“For me, to have missed the last two tournaments was very sad and disappointing,” said the 32-year-old veteran, who has 92 caps for his country. “Every national team player wants to play in the Gulf Cup because it means so much to us and our fans.
“I’ve played in five tournaments so far [from 2002 to 2009] and I’m now happy to be back to where it all began. My first [Gulf Cup game] was in Riyadh and now I’m back.
“I have a very good feeling about this tournament, and I believe we are ready, especially myself, as I come back stronger and ready to show all my experience. Hopefully we’ll get off to a good start against the UAE.”
Of that opening game, Oman coach Paul Le Guen said he wanted revenge over the UAE for knocking them out in the group stages of the last Gulf Cup in 2013.
“I think we arrive at the right moment to take revenge for that loss,” he said. “We played well but just lacked efficiency in front of goal. I hope to be more efficient now despite injuries to many strikers. We’ve had good preparation and the team is refreshed — we are ready.”
