'They know my heart. I'm so happy' - Demiral dedicates Al Ahli going top to fans | OneFootball

Merih Demiral kissed the crest on his chest, pointed towards the large section of gathered Al Ahli fans who were chanting his name, applauded and raised an arm in salute.

It was met with a cacophonous roar.

When it was pointed out that the club’s ardent support had missed him until his return from injury at Al Riyadh on Thursday, the Turkiye defender confirmed the feeling was mutual.

Or maybe not, in fact.

“I miss them more,” Demiral smiled. “Look at our fans, great fans. They deserve everything.”

Al Ahli's loyal fans were out in huge number (again) at Al Riyadh

Demiral and his teammates had certainly repaid the loyalty. Al Ahli eked out a hard-fought, 1-0 victory at Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Stadium, eventually sealing the points 15 minutes from time.

That it took an own goal from Al Riyadh goalkeeper Milan Borjan didn’t matter. Not to Demiral. Not to the Al Ahli faithful.

“We played really well today,” said the hugely popular centre-back having played little more than an hour in his first outing in eight RSL rounds. “It was difficult first half but, second half, we showed that we can win this game.

"But especially our fans, they are amazing. When we come to an away game it’s like we're playing at home. That’s why I am so thankful to them.”

Although narrow, the win did feel extra special. It may be only temporary given Al Nassr don’t play until Saturday but, for now, Al Ahli sit top of the Roshn Saudi League, one point above their capital competitors.

Contributing to that title quest for the first time since mid-January, Demiral could not mask his delight.

“I am super happy to come back,” he said. “To help the team, because they know me, they know my heart. I want to try always to help the team. I’m so proud of them - and the fans.”