The Uzbek side currently occupy second spot in Group C with six points from four games, one point ahead of Iranians Sepahan while Al Ain are bottom of the standings with four points.

A win for either side at Pakhtakor Stadium could change the complexion of the group and Pakhtakor’s performance in a dour goalless draw with Andijan in their local league has raised fears they could fail to take three points on Tuesday.

But Radulovic insisted that performance does not truly reflect Pakhtakor’s ability due to the number of players that were unable to feature in the match.

“In the game with Andijan we had to play without five key players,” said the Montenegrin (pictured)

“Any team in such a situation would have problems.

“Also, some of the players during that game were already thinking of the match with Al Ain.

“We are not too concerned with the result of the game with Andijan It testifies that our season in the Uzbekistan championship will be difficult and I do not think that the draw will negatively affect my players.

“Now our thoughts are directed on the forthcoming two games in the AFC Champions League.

"In the continental tournament strong teams act more and tomorrow we will try to play good football, win and please our fans."

Meanwhile, Al Ain coach Toninho Cerezo knows anything less than a win would all but end their chances of reaching the knockout stage.

The UAE side trail Pakhtakor by two points and Cerezo has demanded his players show their fighting spirit on Tuesday.

“Tomorrow we have to play for a victory," he said. "We do not have any other chance to stay alive in the battle to get to the next stage.

“Anything can happen on the pitch and all my players perfectly understand that tomorrow is our last chance.

“All are resolute and it is important to keep this spirit for the whole of the match.”