Shikabala granted reprieve

الإثنين، 24 يناير 2011 - 19:03

كتب : Sherif Tarek

Zamalek backtracked on their decision to exclude Shikabala from their squad for Sunday's Champions League match at Ulinzi Stars of Kenya, according to chairman Galal Ibrahim.

Shikabala, who took no part in last weekend's goalless draw with Military Production through suspension, had an argument with football director Ibrahim Hassan after the match.

The 24-year-old tried to enter the Whites' dressing room and talk to the players but was told to stay out, which clearly angered the temperamental ace.

Later on, Shikabala missed two consecutive training sessions without permission while his mobile was switched off.

Zamalek initially decided to sanction him but both parties buried the hatchet later.

"The problem has been resolved in a friendly way," Ibrahim told FilGoal.com.

"The player will get back in training on Tuesday and will travel to Kenya.

"We (the board of directors) didn't want to interfere in a dispute between a player and the coaching staff, but I know that Shika is a good person.

"He just can be easily provoked sometimes."

Football director Hassan had slated Shikalaba for his attitude earlier on Monday.

"Participation in matches has to be earned. Players have to exert efforts and sweat it out during training," he said to FilGoal.com.

"Shikabala is pampered and his irresponsibility will cause him to be sidelined. The Stars match is just the beginning."

It is not the first time for Shikabala to go AWOL, having skipped training on several occasions in July last year.

The former PAOK man produced a number of praiseworthy displays in the Egyptian Premier League this season.

He has been instrumental in helping Zamalek top the league table and is widely deemed the best footballer in Egypt.

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