Zamalek demands Olympic players return ahead of Ahly showdown

Mahmoud Elassal, Thursday 12 Jul 2012

Zamalek recalls players from Olympic preparations to face clash with Ahly

Ahmed El Shenawi
Egypt's goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawi (Photo: Reuters)

Zamalek assistant coach Ismail Yousif revealed that the Whites' management demanded the return of their goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shennawy and midfielder Omar Gaber from the Olympic team squad to take part in the game against Ahly in the CAF Champions League 22 July.

"Zamalek coach Hassan Shehata asks the Olympic team tactician to release goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shennawy and Omar Gaber to join the game against Ahly," Yousif told the club's official website Thursday.

"We demand to retain the services of our players ahead of the crucial game, as Ahly's management did."

"We refuse the request of Olympic team coach (Hany Ramzy) who asks to keep the duo in his squad," Yousif added.

Under the helm of Shehata, Zamalek is set to play two friendlies Saturday and Tuesday against Maqassa and Arab Contractors respectively ahead of the showdown against Ahly in the second matchday of the CAF Champions League Group B on 22 July.

Egypt's Olympic coach included Zamalek's goalkeeper and midfielder in the team's preparatory camp in France for the 2012 London Games.

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