Al Gharafa defender Thamer Jamal is quietly confident that his side can make a creditable push into the top four this season under the guidance of new coach Jean Fernandez. The no nonsense defender gave an exclusive interview during the recent media day. 

Opening up the conversation Jamal stressed that Al Gharafa are fully prepared for the new season.  “This is a big year for Al Gharafa, with the league and the qualification match in the AFC Champions League. I am confident we can achieve something with the side we have.”  

It was a season to forget for Jamal who was injured for the majority of last season, however he is now fully fit and ready to give his all for the Cheetahs. “It was tough on me last season, but I have come through our preseason in Turkey now and done well, now I have to fight for a starting place in the side this season.” 

Jamel also revealed that he is confident that his side can better their fifth placed finish in the standings from last season. “We have a good harmony in the group, the new players and coach have been working hard this season and i truly believe that we can go beyond and push into the top four places.” Al Gharafa start the new QNB Stars League campaign with a big match against Al Ahli on Friday evening.