KOTA KINABALU: The Rhinos will be boosted by the return of Jamie Phoenix when they take on Selangor PKNS in a Premier League match at the Tawau Sports Complex tonight.
The Englishman will be available for options after recovering from injury.
And there is more good news in the Rhinos’ camp as they are also expected to unveil their latest and third foreign signing in Andre Scotti Ossemer.
The Brazilian has penned an undisclosed contract with the team and is set to make his maiden debut.
However, his appearance will depend on his International Transfer Certificate (ITC).
Andre last played for a second division club – FC Zwolle – in Holland.
“We have signed our third foreign player,” the Sabah FA Executive Secretary Harry Baking confirmed yesterday referring to Andre.
“He will be available for the PKNS game if we can get his ITC on time. We have requested his agent to deal with the matter and hopefully, he will make his debut tomorrow,” Harry said.
The 26-year-old Andre is the third foreign player in the team after Jamie and Bosnia-Herzegovina defender Dragic Dalibor.
Meanwhile, team manager Rahman Zakaria said they will be looking for nothing less than a win over PKNS.
“We just cannot afford to slip points away, so obviously we will go for the three points.
“I just like to remind the players that they got to work hard to get the points and tomorrow will be no different,” said Rahman.
“They have to keep on with the hard work and as long as they are willing to do it, I’m very sure we will get what we want at the end of the day,” he added.
On the return of Jamie and the possible appearance of Andre, Rahman said: “I’m glad he’s finally back. However, it is up to the head coach (Drago Mamic) whether to start him or otherwise.”
“He (Drago) knows what is best for the team and I’m sure he has his plan ready for the game.
“As for Andre, it is our hope that he will be able to play for the team. His presence would surely strengthen the squad. But whether he will be available or otherwise, I’m still convinced we will be able to get the better of our opponents.”
The rest of the players Rahman said are all available for options thus giving an indication that Sabah could parade their strongest squad since the start of the Premier League in late December last year.
To the fans, Rahman hopes more will turn up for the clash that kicks off at 8.15pm.
