MUSCAT, OCT 6 - Fans in Muscat gave a warm welcome to the English Premier League trophy as they flocked to utilise the photo opportunity when it was on display at the Oman Avenues Mall on Friday evening. In Muscat as part of youth skills programme of Premier League, the visit has been organised by the British Council in association with the Oman Football Association (OFA). The silverware was on show for two hours between 7 pm and 9 pm as fans expressed delight in seeing the original trophy.
Yarub al Rashdi, who likes Manchester United, said it was a special moment to experience the trophy of the league that he follows regularly.
“I used to watch Premier League regularly. It is a rare opportunity for me to get close with the trophy in my city. Thanks to the organisers for making this possible,” the Omani youngster said.
Talking about the EPL, Yarub said in this edition he favours Liverpool to lift the cup.
“This year, Manchester United don’t have a chance. Jose Mourinho (coach) has failed to deliver the goods to United. And, I’m supporting Liverpool this time. They have a young squad of delightful footballers,” he said.
Yarub also had good words for new Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri.
“The Italian is doing a good job for Chelsea,” the football fan opined.
Another fan Al Muttasim was keen to post his picture on the social media after a selfie with the coveted trophy.
The EPL team which accompanied the trophy, said it was a great opportunity to showcase the cup in the football-loving Sultanate.
“We are excited to showcase the trophy with the fans here in Muscat. This is part of our youth skills programme,” a Premier League spokesperson told Oman Daily Observer.
Premier Skills is an international initiative, coming for the first time to Oman, that uses football as a tool to engage with young people and develop key skills.
“As part of the programme our team will interact with coaches and young players. Special focus will be given to coaches and coaching methods,” the spokesperson said.
Replying to a query, the EPL team spokesperson said that there is no plan as of now to organise any Premier League related matches in the GCC.
“We have Friendship Tours happening in Singapore, China, Australia etc. It is worth looking for the same in the GCC too, if there is sufficient interest,” the spokesperson added.
OFA media officer Ahmed al Kaabi was also excited to join the trophy show.
“It is a delight to host the Premier League trophy. Fans in Oman have a rare opportunity to watch it real outside the television sets.”
“As far as OFA is considered we hope this visit will cheer up the football fans in the country. We look forward to utilise the Premier Skills programme as a tool to connect with the young fans too,” he said.
Anuroop Athiparambath
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