Mohammed Fawzi says ‘opportunity is still available’ for UAE to qualify for 2018 World Cup

The Al Jazira defender also called on the FA to appoint a manager with prior knowledge of Emirati football, although that looks unlikely with Argentine Edgardo Bauza on his way to the UAE to sign a contract to become new national team manager.

UAE defender Mohammed Fawzi says the next national team manager should have prior knowledge of football in the Emirates, especially with the crucial 2018 World Cup qualifier against Thailand little more than a month away.

The Football Association look set to appoint Argentine Edgardo Bauza as Mahdi Ali’s replacement, bringing to a close a protracted search for his successor.

The Emirati resigned immediately following defeat to Australia on March 28, a result that left the UAE’s hopes of reaching next summer’s World Cup looking increasingly slim. They are fourth in Group B in the final stage of qualification, seven points off the automatic qualification spots with only three matches remaining.

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■ Edgardo Bauza: Argentine heading to UAE 'to close on details of the contract'

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Fawzi, a member of the squad for those twin 2-0 defeats to Japan and Australia in March, said he did not agree with those calling for an international manager to take charge, saying, given the stage of qualification, it requires someone with an existing knowledge of UAE football, especially since the Arabian Gulf League concludes this week.

“A coach that is not familiar with Emirati football may need a full year to discover the potential and the capacities of the players,” the Al Jazira full-back told the Arabic press. “It is hard for a new coach to get to know the players through recorded games, especially because the level of many players changes from one match to another.

“We have an upcoming game against Thailand for which the squad will get together during the holy month of Ramadan. Contrary to what some think, I feel that there isn’t enough time to choose a new coach.”

On the UAE’s chances of reaching Russia, Fawzi said: “The chances are there, and the opportunity is still available. However, everyone has to work hard to overcome this tough phase. The journey is not an easy one, but the team is up to it, provided that they are fully prepared for this phase and that everyone does their work.”

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