Injury deprives Oman of Al Habsi

25th December 2018

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Kuala Lumpur: An injury has ruled out Oman goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi from the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019.



The Oman Football Association has called up Fayez Al Rashidi to replace veteran Al Habsi, the team captain who has been a mainstay in all previous AFC Asian Cup campaigns for the West Asian side.

His absence will be a blow to Oman, who were aiming to build on their 2017 Gulf Cup success in the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019.



Al Habsi expressed his disappointment at having to miss out on Oman's campaign.

"It is the worst possible feeling when an injury deprives you of the chance to represent the national team. However, I have full confidence in my teammates," said Al Habsi in a post on social media.

Al Habsi suffered the injury while playing for Al Hilal against Al Ahli in the Saudi Premier League game on Friday.

The Oman FA said head coach Pim Verbeek decided on Al Rashidi, who plays for Saudi Pro League side Al Ain, as Al Habsi's replacement.

Al Rashidi, 30, has 20 previous appearances for Oman.


Source: the-afc.com

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