Emenike trains with Al Ain

.Says I can fill Gyan’s shoes

 

Emenike in training Pix Al Ain

EMMANUEL Emenike had his first training session with his Al-Ain teammates after he was officially unveiled late on Friday. 

Emenike in training 2 Pix Al Ain

The Nigerian who joined the U.A.E side on a 3.5million euros loan deal from Fernebahce of Turkey told local media he would fit into the shoes of Ghanaian star striker Asamoah Gyan, who scored 95 goals in 83 games helping Al Ain win the league thrice and in the process finishing as UAE Pro League top-scorer on three occasions.

“I’m happy to be here and in a great club like this. I also like to be in a club that wins title and I’m here to win more trophies,” said Emenike, who hasn’t been in the best of touch in the Turkish League having scored just 16 goals from 55 matches for Fenerbahçe. Last season, he only managed four goals in 27 appearances and hence there is a lot of apprehension in the media and among the Al Ain fans about Emenike being an ideal replacement for Gyan.

However, the Nigerian tried his best to justify his selection saying that he has the striking prowess and can deliver the goods to see Al Ain achieve its goals.

“I have scored goals starting from when I was with Karabükspor and then Fenerbahçe. I have won tropies in Turkey but last season wasn’t that great for me but I made a lot of impact as I got a lot of assists. However, yes, it wasn’t a good last season for me,” said Emenike, adding, “Gyan is a very good player and I’m here to replace him and I hope I do well. He has achieved a lot in his career and so have I. I have won the African Cup. It doesn’t worry me that I’m replacing Gyan as my plan is to work as a team-man and then do well as a player.”

Al Ain board member Mohammad Bin Badawa came out in support of Emenike saying it would be unfair to draw a comparison between the Nigerian and Gyan.

“Emenike is a very good player and you can’t make any such comparisons with Gyan as each one has their own qualities. Gyan succeeded because he got assistance from all our players. You also have to understand that last year, we achieved a lot of things and won crucial matches in the absence of Gyan,” said Bin Badawa, who was also impressed with what Emenike said about being a team player.

“I liked what Emmanuel said as he didn’t speak about himself and that is what we are looking for. We don’t have to fear with Gyan leaving the club as we have the resources to do well and achieve our goals.”

Emenike was also looking forward to playing with Al Ain’s ace medio Omar Abdul Rahman. “To play with a player like Omar is great and I have seen a few of his videos. He is special and gave some good passes to Gyan. I think I will work well with him and I’m looking forward to training with him,” said 28-year-old.