Ajax Amesterdam coach Frank De Boer has been surprised by the decision of his Egyptian striker Ahmed Hossam "Mido" to leave the club during current winter transfer window.

The Dutch giants announced last week on their official website that the talented international hitman is seeking a new challenge and there will be a meeting to see how the player’s contract will be terminated.

"His departure surprised me. I have expressed my confidence in him. We had in mind that our number 9 became fit," De Boer was quoted by Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf on Monday.

The 28-year-old joined his former club Ajax last summer from English side Middlesbrough, but his future has been the subject of speculation following the departure of coach Martin Jol.

Despite the fact that his current contract runs until next June, Mido’s decision was based on his view that he would have limited playing opportunities.

“There is a great chance that these guys deserve to play because of their high quality. You can’t win with only eleven men, but you need 22 or 23 players,” added De Boer referring to Mido and his experienced Moroccan teammate Mounir El Hamdaoui.

Mido, whose previous clubs include Tottenham and Roma, is now considering his options. Spanish duo Deportivo De La Coruna and Espanyol and his boyhood club Zamalek have all expressed an interest in securing the striker's services.