Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan came on late to score his first goal in the Asian Champions League in Al Ain’s 3-1 win over Al Hilal on Wednesday.

The 27-year-old struck in injury time to give the Boss the much needed ‘insurance’ goal after coming on to replace striker Jires Kembo-Ekoko in the 83rd minute.

Gyan was shockingly left on the bench for the crucial first leg clash at the Tahnoun Bin Mohamed Stadium.

His surprise drop was interpreted by many as a move by manager Cosmin Olariou to keep his leading marksman fresh for the top of the league clash against Al Jazira on Sunday.

The Ghana captain resurrected his impressive goalscoring form in the UAE with a neat finish on Wednesday to signify his readiness for the weekend’s big game.

Gyan has now extended his season tally to 22 in 16 games and is two goals clear off Brazilian Grafite in his bid to retain his UAE Pro-League Goal King crown.