Hundreds of fans surprised Al Ain's Asamoah Gyan as he arrived at Al Ain Airport yesterday after returning from international duty at the African Cup of Nations

Arriving home on a private plane that he paid for himself to be available for Al Ain's next Etisalat Pro League game, Gyan was followed to his house by a procession of cars as the Al Ain faithful celebrated having their star striker back.

“The fans surprised me and it is hard to express my feeling at that moment with words," said an overwhelmed Gyan.

"I have never received such welcoming and never had the same feeling. I’m really happy for my team also because they kept on top of the standings. I was checking continuously Al Ain football first team news when I was away. All my friends and my family members became even attached to Al Ain team. In fact, I was away of the club by body only, but my heart and soul stayed here in Al Ain. I was really happy for the last two victories after leaving the President’s Cup championship and losing one match in the league. Truly, I expected people are asleep at this time, but I was surprised with this big number waiting for me in the airport. I can’t find the words to thank Al Ain fans. I felt big love that I feel only within my family.”