Ahli coach Manuel Jose preferred youngster Ayman Ashraf to Moawad at the starting line-up, before taking off the former and moving right-back Ahmed Fathi to the left flank.

The tactical alteration raised eyebrows over Jose’s snub to Moawad, who has been Egypt’s first choice left back during the past few years.

“Of course I am unhappy. I would be silly if I didn’t feel frustrated!” Moawad replied to Modern Kora TV when asked about spending the night on the bench.

“Anyway I am not thinking of leaving the club. I won’t quit Ahli unless the club decides to release me.

“Right now I have to work harder in training in order to win the management’s confidence.”

When asked about his relationship with Moawad, the former Ismaili captain replied: “My relationship with Jose is normal.”