Omar Abdulrahman '100 per cent' ready to power UAE's 2022 World Cup play-off bid

UAE playmaker Omar Abdulrahman says he is “100 per cent ready” to help the national team in this summer’s World Cup play-offs having starred recently on his return from injury for Shabab Al Ahli.

The Emirati midfielder, 30, has spent the majority of the season on the sidelines – he has played only twice in the 2021/22 Adnoc Pro League – but has been in inspired form this month in the Asian Champions League group stages in Saudi Arabia. Abdulrahman had not played competitively since early January.

The 2016 Asian player of the year was particularly influential last week against Qatar’s Al Gharafa, when he created two assists and played key roles in two more goals as the Dubai side won 8-2.

Understandably, Abdulrahman’s performances have piqued the interest of many inside UAE football, including national team manager Rodolfo Arruabarrena. The UAE face Australia in the World Cup play-offs in Qatar on June 7. Should they win, they take on Peru six days later for a place in the global finals.

Abdulrahman has not featured for the national team since November 2019.

Asked by Abu Dhabi Sports immediately following Tuesday night’s Group C finale against Iran’s Foolad if he was ready for the play-offs, Abdulrahman said: “With no doubt, even if I'm not ready. Being 50 per cent ready means you're ready. However, I am 100 per cent ready because it is everybody's dream, it is the dream of UAE.

“I hope everyone stands together, not only the players, the technical staff and the administration team, but also the media, fans, and everyone during this time - because the two remaining matches can lead us to the World Cup finals.

“Of course, the first play-off against Australia will be difficult for sure, but with solidarity, we will be able