No more shoulder-patting, says Zamalek coach

Zamalek interim boss Ahmed Refaat stated that severe disciplinary actions will be taken, following the White Knights' early elimination from the Egyptian Cup.

كتب : Sherif Tarek

السبت، 27 ديسمبر 2008 - 20:21
Refaat wants to put an end to Zamalek horrible run
Zamalek interim boss Ahmed Refaat stated that severe disciplinary actions will be taken, following the White Knights' early elimination from the Egyptian Cup.

The cup holders were ousted after slumping to an embarrassing 1-0 defeat to third tier Bani Obeid in the round of 32 on Friday.

"All culprits will be handed punishments. We are losing on all fronts as a result of the players' apathy and recklessness," the tactician told Zamalek's official website.

Claiming the Egyptian Cup title in the previous season was the only triumph for Zamalek in the last four years.

Apparently, the beleaguered team could suffer another trophyless season, as the cup title was the only one within their grasps.

"We are out of contention for the Egyptian League title, and couldn't keep the Egyptian Cup trophy either," said Refaat.

Moreover, the caretaker coach said the Cairo-based club will no longer be generous with the first team players.

"We have spent millions of pounds on these players, but not any more. They have cost us an arm and a leg, and we didn't get a single trophy in return," he added.

"From now on, we will fine any player who shows lack of responsibility, even big-name footballers."

Unexpected Decision

Refaat revealed that striker Mostafa Gaafar and midfielder Mohamed Abdullah are going to be harshly sanctioned

Ironically, the duo didn't feature in Friday's game, but Refaat is convinced they both deserve to be punished for skipping the pre-match training sessions.

"They kept missing training for no apparent reason, therefore they are going to incur serious disciplinary measures," he said.