Zamalek playmaker Mohamed Ibrahim (Photo: Ahram)
Highly-rated playmaker Mohamed Ibrahim, whose recent displays were largely disappointing, was left out of Zamalek's squad for Monday's Egyptian Premier League game against Ittihad El-Shorta.
Ibrahim is considered one of Zamalek's key players, thanks to his ability to penetrate opposing backlines with his mazy runs and twists, but has failed to impress in recent games despite the club's fine league run.
There was also no room for central defender Mahmoud Fathallah as rookie coach Mido continues his rotation policy, saying he would need "fresh legs" in the latter stages of the season. Right-back Ahmed Samir was also omitted.
"The technical staff is the sole party responsible for selecting players. I have to respect their choices and work hard to cement my place in the team," Ibrahim said on the club's official website.
Mido is heavily relying on youngsters, with his squad including several players who were promoted from the youth team, including defender Yasser Ibrahim and attacking midfielder Mostafa Fathi.
Zamalek, who have won two games and drawn once since Mido took over at the club last month, lie fourth in Group B with 13 points, three behind Ismaily and seven adrift of leaders Petrojet. The latter duo played two games more.
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