O’Leary runs out of time in desert

FORMER Republic of Ireland international David O’Leary’s time in charge with United Arab Emirates outfit Al-Ahli is all but over after the club revealed last night they plan to sack him this weekend.

A senior member of the board of directors of the club told UAE daily Gulf News that the club management, headed by Abdullah Al Naboodah, have decided to part company with the former Leeds United boss.

O’Leary was hand-picked by former Al-Ahli director of football Mark Bell — who has also parted ways with the club recently — and it was Al Naboodah’s personal rapport with the former Arsenal defender that sealed a three-year deal for the 52-year-old.

“Since Al Naboodah is travelling back to Dubai from Europe (tonight), we will issue a formal statement only after all other formalities are carried out,” the board member said.

Al Naboodah has already given his approval for the sacking of the former Leeds and Aston Villa manager based largely on the team’s recent form — a run which culminated in a 5-1 mauling at the hands of league leaders Al Jazira on Thursday night.