El-Shenawy fears a harsh reaction from Leopards fans

Zamalek goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shenawy was dropped from the squad that will face the Leopards in the Confederation Cup quarter-finals on Sunday at the request of the player, who fears a harsh reaction from Leopards fans after Rudi Bhebey-Ndey’s injury during the previous game two weeks ago in Cairo.

The Leopards striker fell heavily onto his head following a confrontation with El-Shenawy.and severely injured his spine. A successful operation managed to save his lift but doctors say that his playing career is now over.

On Thursday, Zamalek coach Jusualdo Ferreira announced his 16-man squad for Sunday’s clash.

Four of the team’s new signings appeared on the list: wingers Mohamed Ibrahim and Mahmoud ‘Kahraba’ Abdel-Moneim, fullback Mohamed Gomaa, and striker Mohamed Salem.

Strikers Ahmed Hassan Mekki and Ahmed Hamoudi, who also joined Zamalek this summer, were dropped from the squad as they are not physically fit and need time to regain their form.

Zamalek are at the top of Group B with nine points after three successive wins, three points ahead of second-placed Orlando Pirates of South Africa who will host Tunisian side Club Sfaxien on Saturday.