BEIRUT. Oct 9 (AFP): Wolver-

hamp(on Wanderers forward Sami Al Jaber is back lo lead (he attacking line as champions Saudi Arabia prepare to defend (heir Asian Cup crown.

Veteran Al Jaber — the first Arab to play in the English league — heads a squad which comes under the control of successful Czech coach Milan Macala.

Al Jaber, nicknamed the 'Blue Fox' by Saudi fans, remains one of the finest forwards in Asia according to Macala.

"Sami has got the ability to score against the very’ best defences. and I'm not surprised he has gone to England." Macala said.

Saudi Arabia's recent record in the Asian Cup will see them start as one of the favourites in Lebanon.

Thev have won three out of lour of1 the last editions of the lourimment. (he only defeat coming in Japan in 1992. And in Mat ala they now have one ol (he most successful coaches in (he Asian game

From 1996 lo 1998 Macala guided Kuwait to two Gull Cups, a silver medal at the Asian Games, a bronze In the Arab Cup and fourth place in the Asian Cup

Now the Saudis are hoping he can weave his magic once again.

But Macala has consistently talked down Saudi Arabia's « haners in the competiiion The holders are grouped with Japan. Qatar and Uzbekistan in Group Three.

"For Lebanon we have to prepare a new learn or else we ll lose against the other teams from both the west and the cast. I think the Asian Cup will be difficult for everyone." Macala said.

. "I can’t see anyone who is weak. The only weakness comes in preparation and in my experience it’s difficult io find weak opponents at this level.

"China, Japan Korea Iran. Iraq even Indonesia, all ol the trams can prepare well.

Macala lias had lo oversee a ( hanging of the guard as old-timers such as Youssef Al Tlnuilyan and Khalid Mussad make wav for the younger Mohammad Al Shlhoob and Mar-zouq Oteibi.

Al Jaber will be the font of Saudi Arabia's attack, while at Hu back Mohammad Al Khi-laiwi and Abdullah Suleiman form one of the lightest defensive partnerships in Asian tool-ball.