Sierra Leonean-born, Khalifa Jabbie plying his trade with FC Sheriff in Moldova has told www.footballsierraleone.net that he looks forward to Champions League action tonight as his team takes on the Israeli side, Hapoel Be’er Sheva in the competition’s second qualifying round.
In an exclusive interview with this medium, Jabbie said he is very hopeful that his coach would give him the nod for him to make his debut away in Israel today at the Turner Be’er Sheva stadium.
Jabbie, 23, said: “This encounter may be my first in the European big stage. I hope I will be selected to start and it is a challenge that I relish.”
Also, he said: “Though we are fully aware of the test away in Israel, we hope to achieve the ultimate goal and get into the group stages of the competition.”
For him, his side is, “better prepared and we know exactly what the manager is expected from us,” and further stated: “We just have to make sure we focus on the job at hand and ensure we sail through.”
However, footballsierraleone.net sources say the Sierra Leonean star is facing tough competition for first team football as his Moldovan side has recently reinforced their team in readiness for the season and ahead of the second qualifying round.
Among his contenders for first team spot include; Croatian midfielder, Josip Brezovec who came on loan to FC Sheriff from HNK Rijeka.
Brazilian forward, Ricardinho has also just returned from a loan spell with Sharjah FC, where he featured in 12 matches with 3 goals to his credit during his 6 months stay with the team.
His return, sources say increases the challenge of who the coach should pick ahead of the others in addition also, to the return of Bosnian midfielder, Zoran Kvrzic to the side from his loan spell.
The return fixture is slated to be played in Tiraspol on July 18/19.
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