Having finished fourth in the Uzbek League last year as well as making the last four of the cup, the wheels have come off at the start of the current season.

Shurtan have managed only one draw from their first five matches, leaving them bottom of the standings with just a single point.

Defeat last time out to Bunyodkor in Tashkent was a particularly damaging result and questions are being asked about Gess’ position.

Speaking ahead of the Syrian side’s visit to Guzor Central Stadium, Gess reflected on the reasons for the drop in form.

“In my opinion, the players simply underestimated how tough and difficult this season would be,” said Gess.

“They thought that the matches would be decided easily. However, the simple games are already gone.

“It seems to me the team improving in every match and although we cannot achieve the results we want to now, the team’s game is getting better.

“We have championship matches, Uzbekistan Cup matches, as well as the AFC Cup matches.”

Turning his attention to Wednesday's visitors, Gess added: “I believe that we can beat Al Ittihad.

“The match with the Syrian club should become a turning point in the season. We have every chance of reaching the next round, we just have to avoid mistakes in the remaining matches. I am heartened by the fact that Vadim Afonin has recovered from injury and will play.”

Both sides go into the game with three points from two games, having each won and lost a match but while Gess’ side are battling against a run of modest performances, Al Ittihad are facing a different issue - lack of competitive action.

With the Syrian domestic game currently suspended for an indefinite period due to political instability in the region, they have not played in three weeks.

Head coach of Kemal Alispahic, however, is confident of success.

“We are going to win tomorrow's match. Almost all the key players are ready for the game. Only the suspended Majeddin Homsi will miss the match,” he said.

“We have studied the games of Uzbekistan’s leading clubs - Bunyodkor, Pakhtakor, Nasaf and Shurtan. Despite the fact that Shurtan have had an unsuccessful start in the championship it does not mean they are a weak opponent. This can happen with any team.”