The robust marksman had an immaculate start to his adventure at the JJB Stadium, but later on his form notably dipped and he fell out with then coach Steve Bruce as a result of indiscipline problems.

In an attempt to improve his image, Zaki admitted spoiling his Wigan stint, and apologized to Bruce for the troubles he caused.

He also pledged not to repeat the same mistakes again should he join a Premiership club this summer.

"I know that my behaviour when returning late from international duty was unacceptable and I am truly sorry for that," Zaki told skysports.com.

“This was my first time outside of Egypt and I made some mistakes.

"I have learnt from those mistakes and they will not happen again.

"I want to thank Steve Bruce and Wigan chairman Mr (Dave) Whelan for the chance they gave me at Wigan and I want them to publicly know that I am sorry for the ways things turned out there."

Bruce, who's now in charge of Sunderland, once labbled Zaki 'the most unprofessional player he has ever worked with', after the latter repeatedly failed to report back from international duty on time.

Second Chance

"I want to return to England, to the Premier League, I know that I can score goals and I know that I will be successful for any team that takes me,” Zaki added.

"I can promise any manager looking for a striker that I will score goals, that I will work hard and that I will give 100 per cent for the club, the fans, the manager and my team-mates.

"Everybody deserves a second chance and I aim to take mine. I understand that there are many clubs looking for a striker and the option to take me on loan from Zamalek is possible again this season.

"I have everything to prove and I know that I am good enough and now mentally strong enough to cope with the Premier League, I just need the chance to prove it."

Portsmouth were mooted a while back as a possible destination for Zaki this transfer window, but Zamalek have laid stress more than once on their desire to hold onto him.

However, Pompey remain interested in Zaki's services, especially that Dubai businessman Soliman Al-Fahim, who's set to acquire Portsmouth, is totally convinced with the Egypt star's capabilities.

Both clubs are said to be in talks over a possible extendable loan deal that would see the 26-year-old move to Fratton Park soon.