Zamalek Vice President Raaouf Gaser insists that the club board is fully committed to head coach Hassan Shehata, denying any possibility that Shehata will leave his post after the 2-1 loss to ENNPI on Friday night.

Although striker Ahmed Gaafar gave Zamalek the lead early on the second half, the petroleum club, ENNPI, proved its worth in a comeback. ENNPI scored twice, interrupting the Whites' eight-match unbeaten run in the Egyptian Premier League.

The sudden turn of tables after the three precious-point loss had the Zamalek fans venting their anger on their veteran coach, Shehata, who indicated with his hands that he will leave.

“Shehata’s gesture was out of momentary anger after seeing the opponents score two goals,” Gasser was quoted as saying by the club’s official website.

Zamalek remained third with 32 points, one behind second-placed Ahly and two adrift of surprise leaders Harras El-Hodoud. Both teams could widen the gap when they play their respective games on Saturday.

“I am confident that Shehata will not leave us in this critical period of the domestic league, as the team is expecting crucial games on their way to the tournament’s title.

“The board has full confidence in the technical staff and players, and our fans must support them to resume our successful campaign,” concluded Gasser.

Under the guidance of Egypt’s former coach, Shehata, Zamalek are hot on the trail of their first league title since 2004.

(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online sports on Twitter: @AO_Sports)