Metsu checks out Juma as he battles back from injury

Abu Dhabi: The UAE's national football team coach was at the Al Nahyan Stadium on Friday evening to watch the clash between leaders Al Shabab and former champions Al Wahda and would have keenly followed the brief appearance of UAE captain Abdul Rahim Juma.

The lanky Al Wahda star has been out of action for most of the season and was on the field for the last quarter in the 2-2 drawn encounter.

Fearless tackles

Juma, who has been a star for both club and country in his pivotal position as an attacking midfielder, also played in Al Wahda's 2-3 loss to Al Dhafra but on Friday came up with a few fearless tackles which must have left both the club's as well as the national team technical staff a bit relieved.

Al Wahda, who are having a nightmare of a season in the First Division League, will now be pinning all their hopes on the AFC Champions League where they have an outside chance.

On Wednesday the Abu Dhabi team take on Saudi Arabia's Al Ahli and a win will see them back in contention in the four-team Group C.

Juma had one good attempt against Al Shabab and Al Wahda's supporters, who gave him a loud welcome on Friday, will be hoping he plays a larger role on Wednesday, a role which will be keenly watched by Metsu who prepares the UAE team for a crucial game against Iran on June 2 in the World Cup qualifiers.