Zamalek’s new Algerian striker Mohamed Aoudia hailed the club's coach Hossam Hassan as the key factor that led him to agree to join the Whites from January.

The 23-year old arrived in Cairo on Tuesday night to sign a two and half-year contract with Zamalek for $1 million.

“I will do my best with Zamalek to honor my country and repay coach Hossam Hassan for his trust in me. Hassan’s presence encouraged me a lot to accept the offer,” Aoudia told Algerian newspaper El Heddaf on Wednesday.

The Egyptian League leaders were looking for a top striker to strengthen their front line ahead of their 2011 CAF Champions League campaign before they finally reached an agreement with Aoudia.

“It is a big responsibility that I will represent Algerian football in Egypt, but I am ready for this challenge,” he added.

Aoudia, eager to familiarise himself with his new club, watched their last game against Wadi Degla.

“I was impressed by the team’s performance, they really have talented palyers. Now I know the majority of my teammates and also I will be in Cairo stadium to watch them in the Cairo derby against Ahly,” the player added.

Aoudia — an imposing presence up front — is JS Kabylie’s top scorer this season with five goals. Last season, he helped the club reach the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League.