Soccer News of Sunday, 29 December 2013

Source: goal.com

Al Ain woo Ghana striker Gyan to stay

West Ham’s pursuit of Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan may hit a snag as Al Ain are working feverishly behind the scenes to let their goal poacher stay put.

The Premier League side want the services of the Black Stars top scorer as a stop-gap measure following Andy Carroll’s long-term injury, but officials of the UAE-based outfit say they have no intention to trade the player.

“Al Ain officially received offers from some clubs and unofficial ones also to buy the player, but we want the player to stay, so do the club administration and the coaching staff,” Al Ain team supervisor, Mohammed Obeid Hammad pointed out.

“The fans have also developed a strong connection with the player, who has become well known for honoring the club by playing a major part in the achievements made by Al Ain in the past two seasons.”

The 28-year-old helped the Boss to win the league in the last two seasons and also grabbing the top scorer’s award in each of those terms. He has scored 14 goals this season in 11 league games.

Hammad added: “The decision on the renewal of a contract for any player is taken by our Professional Committee. They will talk with the player. We live in a professionalism era, which requires clubs to make decisions in favour of the club.”

“The Board of Directors and the coaching staff want him to stay and we hope that he would be able to continue because he is one of the most important players in the squad and the top scorer of the team. Our fans adore Gyan and he has a special position in their hearts.”