Al Habsi should be a role model

Abu Dhabi: Omani goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi is a role model for footballers from the Gulf region with his successful career in the English Premier League.

Al Habsi started his career in Al Midhaibi in Oman in 1998 and then moved to Al Nasr before going to Norway where he played for Lyn Oslo from 2003-05. His big break came when he was signed by Bolton Wanderers in 2006 where he made a few appearances for them in the English Premier League and the Europa League before joining Wigan Athletic on a loan arrangement in 2010.

Al Habsi's success convinced Wigan officials to sign him up and he has become their first-choice custodian this season. Seeking to emulate Al Habsi's success, Oman's Sa'ad Al Mukhaini has gone to Arsenal for a surprise trial following the recommendation of Oman national team coach Paul Le Guen.

"I always said there was talent in Oman. When people start playing in the Premier League like I have [done] then everyone starts looking at what is there and hopefully more will come through in the future. We have many talented players who just need someone to show to the rest of the world and be given a chance," Al Habsi said in a recent interview. Al Habsi's success came after a long period of hard work and patience and Emirati footballer Hamdan Mohammad Al Kamali, who now plays for French club Lyon, has a lot to learn from Al Habsi.