As ex-teammate Moore, 34, gets ready to appear in court tomorrow following his arrest over an alleged boozy dispute with police in Dubai, Aussie international Robbie Slater has voiced his concerns.
Slater expressed hope that Moore’s reputation as a top athlete could aid him in avoiding severe penalties in the Arab nation.
Known as Skippy, dad Moore was granted bail when his case was postponed due to Friday being a Muslim Holy day.
At home in Oz last night, his worried wife Heather awaited updates.
Slater remarked, “I’m very worried about Craig. He’s certainly found himself in a challenging situation in the wrong country. They are quite serious over there.
“I can imagine him; he’s got a fiery personality. However, he is a seasoned professional. My only hope is that his status as an international athlete works to his advantage.”
Moore, a cancer survivor who made 175 appearances for the Ibrox team before leaving Glasgow in 2005, was arrested in the resort for the wealthy on Wednesday.
Last night, a distressed Heather commented, “I can’t travel over there. I’ve got two kids here and my job to handle.
“I’ll have to remain patient and see how things unfold.
“I’m attempting to maintain a sense of normalcy, but my 12-year-old son Dylan is perceptive and is asking questions.”
Yesterday, a representative from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs stated: “Consular officials from Abu Dhabi continue to provide assistance to the man and his family in Australia, and they are in touch with his lawyer.”
In the meantime, it was disclosed that the federal government’s website offers advisories for travelers to the UAE, mentioning that those arrested might find themselves in detention for an extended period.
The advisory noted: “If you are arrested, you could face a lengthy period of detention before your trial begins.
“It is important to familiarize yourself with local laws prior to your journey.”