Give Negredo time, Jovanovic says

Al Nasr desperate for a result, but new signing may not bring in immediate rewards

Former Manchester City striker Alvaro Negredo will make his Al Nasr debut at home to Al Ain tomorrow, but he shouldn’t be expected to have an immediate impact, according to Blue Wave boss Ivan Jovanovic.

The 33-year-old Spaniard joined midweek for €1 million (Dh4.3 million) on a two-year deal from Turkey’s Besiktas, earning the player Dh15 million a season.

It comes at a time when Al Nasr are desperate for a win having opened their Arabian Gulf League campaign with two defeats at home to Ajman 1-0 and away to Sharjah 6-3.

“He’s one player with great experience, having played at a high level, but, of course, this guy will need a little more time to adapt, to find out about the team and how they play, and even the weather conditions,” said Jovanovic. “It’s not easy for him. We need to give him time. I believe that he will help us in the future,” said Jovanovic.

Negredo replaces Brazilian striker Iury de Castilho, who himself had only just joined from Ukrainian side Zorya Luhansk over the summer.

“He will replace Iury, who is a young player on a long-term contract with the team, so he will remain (on the books).”

Of the Al Ain match, the Serbian said: “Al Ain are the defending champions and a very good team, we come into this after two bad results and have the chance to change the impression of our team.”

With Negredo now joining French former Newcastle United and Crystal Palace midfielder Yohan Cabaye at the club along with Brazilians Samuel Rosa and Marquinhos Gabriel, from Hatta and Corinthians, the side should be strong this season.

Elsewhere this weekend, league-leaders Sharjah are away to Shabab Ahli today , and fellow table-toppers Al Wahda host Al Wasl tomorrow.