Al Arabi coach Heimir Hallgrimsson spoke to the media ahead of their 2019-20 QNB Stars League Week 18 match against Al Gharafa.

“It is really good to be back. It was a difficult period for everyone, we are happy with the return of football action. First of all, we would like to thank all those who made it happen.

“Normally, we would be preparing for a new season at this time, but now we are preparing to complete this season, which is a challenge and a difficult time as well.

“I think we have many players who have benefited from this break. We have achieved a good level before the break and have performed well in many matches.

“We have young players who need time to progress so we can focus on their development. We have players who train so hard as well and I am excited to see how they will be when they are back in action.

“It is the season’s game because of the difference in points between both teams in the table, where Al Arabi are fifth with 24 points and Al Gharafa fourth with 28 points. So we have to work to achieve victory in this match.

“It is really sad that we will be playing in the absence of fans due to the current circumstances, but they will watch us on TV. I hope they will be proud of our performance and we will do everything for that,” said Hallgrimsson.

Al Arabi player Abdulrahman Anad said, “We still have five games to play which are all important. It is going to be a decisive game against Al Gharafa because it will give us a chance to be back among the top 4. We will do our best to grab the three points.

“During the break, we were training in groups as per the precautionary measures in the general plan and protocol. Thank God, we are among the most fit teams as we did not stop our training. So in my view, we used the break in a positive way.

“For sure, our ambitions are high in the league competition. The top four is our target and we are able to achieve it. But we have to stay concentrated in every game and give all our potential on the pitch, God willing.

“The circumstances are actually different. Before Al Arabi fans were the first to attend our games. They are No.1 for us. I hope we will be able to make them happy and fulfil their ambitions.”