(MENAFN- The Peninsula)
The Peninsula
Doha: James Rodriguez is set to play his first match in Qatar today, when Al Rayyan take on Al Duhail in the QNB Stars League at the Al Gharafa Stadium.
The Colombia star left Premier League side Everton to join Al Rayyan last month but has not appeared for the Qatari club due to muscle injury.
Al Rayyan will be desperate for Rodriguez to fire for them as they are sixth in the league standings. And there is no better opponent than to do against Al Duhail, who are second in the table having played a game less.
Al Rayyan coach Laurent Blanc said Rodriguez has been in good shape and have recovered from injury.
“Rodriguez had a slight muscle problem and was not ready to play. Now, he is much better and training normally, and I am happy with the work he is doing. He worked a lot last week and we can see him in the Al Duhail match," he said.
It is good news for him, Al Rayyan and me because he is a great player. I think it is good news for everyone who loves football because he is a very good player and we will see him against Al Duhail,” Blanc said yesterday.
“We are looking forward to achieve victory and collect the three points. Happy for this match, because if you don't concede the goals, you win. In the future, we have to continue with this work and we want to defend better, so we will work a lot,” the French coach added.
Meanwhile, table toppers Al Sadd take on Al Gharafa today and will be keen to extend their unbeaten run. The Reigning champions coach Xavi Hernandez expected a difficult contest at the Al Gharafa stadium.
“In the next match, we will play against Al Gharafa. They are a big team and one of the best sides in the league. This means that getting three points will be really tough. They play well and occupy top position in the standings. I expect a very difficult match,” he said.
Xavi also confirmed Spanish playmaker Santi Cazorla will make his first start today after having recovered from injury.
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