Former Liverpool star Jonjo Shelvey struck a penalty to forget for his new side in the United Arab Emirates third-division on Sunday.
Shelvey had previously looked to continue his career away from English soil in Turkey following spells at Anfield, as well as Newcastle, Swansea City, and Nottingham Forest.
The midfielder first moved to Turkish Super Lig club Caykur Rizespor during the 2023-24 season, before moving on to Istanbul-based Eyupspor end of the campaign.
But things quickly soured between the two parties, with Shelvey agreeing to leave the club after just five months amid roiling tensions that saw his departure confirmed in a terse 34-word statement.
The 33-year-old then joined Burnley as a free agent, but over the summer Shelvey nabbed a move to the Gulf state – but some way off the more well-known outfits of the country’s top tier.
Shelvey joined the Dubai-based Arabian Falcons, who were founded just two years ago.
Jonjo Shelvey struck a penalty to forget as he stepped up for his new side Arabian Falcons
The former Liverpool star joined the Gulf State third-division side at the start of the season
But after netting an assist in his first start last week, his second start ending in somewhat ignominious personal circumstances despite the team carrying off the eventual 1-0 win against Al Fath.
Wearing the captain’s armband, Shelvey stepped up to the penalty spot, but after a patient wait, could only slide the ball well wide of the post.
Instead, his team-mate Ebrima Kinteh helped secure the win with a goal in the 66th minute, shortly before the team were handed a red card and reduced to 10 men.
Arabian Falcons currently sit fourth in the Second Division, after two matchdays.
But more surprising than his moves were the conditions of the home ground, with a number of fans on social media surprised by the humbleness of his surroundings.
‘Had more fans watching me at (five-a-side) on Wednesday (for f***’s sake),’ one commenter jibed.
Another added: ‘Looks like he is playing at power league in Romford’.
A third suggested the ground looked ‘like it’s over (in) the local park’.
But a number who watched the social media clip were keen only for Shelvey to ply his trade again in England, with many suggesting he could still featuring in the Championship.
Arabian Falcons are coached by an English manager, Harry Agomobar, with the side sponsored by a number of recognisable brands including Flannels and Nando’s.
