Mohamed Aboutrika hails teammates after bright start to Baniyas spell

Despite two goals in two games for Baniyas, the Egyptian star insists club's recent success is the result of a concerted effort, writes John McAulay.

New Baniyas loan signing Mohammed Aboutrika.

Mohamed Aboutrika has attributed to his Baniyas teammates the fine start to his Pro League career.

The Egyptian playmaker, arguably the star recruit of the recent transfer window, notched his second goal in as many games on Friday, firing home a free kick as Baniyas comfortably dispatched Dubai 5-0.

That strike followed a delightful debut effort last week in the President's Cup defeat to Al Ain, and has already justified the Abu Dhabi club's persistence in negotiations to secure Aboutrika on a six-month loan from Al Ahly, of the troubled Egyptian Premier League.

Baniyas latest run of form - they have won six of their past nine league matches - has taken them to third in the standings, level on points with second-placed Al Jazira. They remain nine points behind champions Al Ain, yet the acquisition of Aboutrika and Christian Wilhelmsson, the vastly experienced Swede, has increased expectation of late attempt at the title.

Aboutrika, though, insists Baniyas' current good fortune is the product of the collective spirit at the club.

"Baniyas has a range of the finest young players, and we must always talk about their future and also the future of the team, without talking simply about one or two players," he said. "It is certain that the system and teamwork will be secret to Baniyas' success in the future.

Regarding his rapid transition to UAE, Aboutrika, 34, added: "I did not feel alienated at all, because the club have done everything in its power to help me. I'm here to thank them and promise them I will provide more in the future."

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