Beni Suef Telephones have appointed Ashraf Kasem to take over from Hamza El-Gamal as coach after Hossam Hassan went back on an earlier agreement to join the club.

“My task is not easy, especially because my first test will be against powerful Harras El-Hodoud in day-12 of the Egyptian Premier League,” Kasem told Ahram Online.

“I have been watching Beni Suef recently and I admire the team spirit among the young and talented players,” the former Zamalek player added.

Kasem insisted that he didn’t talk with coach Hassan. The former Zamalek coach is reported to have changed his mind after the club failed to meet the financial demands of his backroom staff.

“I have apologised because of financial issues as I wanted to hire all my technical assistant staff while the club couldn’t fulfill their demands,” Hassan said adding, “I respect the board and I wish them all the luck in their league campaign.”

Beni Suef Telephones are struggling in 10th place of the 19-team league table with only 12 points.

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