Zamalek playmaker Shikabala is ecstatic at his Egypt call-up for the 2010 African Cup of Nations (CAN), and vowed to live up to expectations.
Pharaohs coach Hassan Shehata named the 23-year-old ace in his squad for the biennial competition, after veteran schemer Mohamed Abou-Treika was ruled out with a serious foot injury.
Shikabala, whose last appearance on the international stage was in Egypt’s 3-3 draw with Guinea in a friendly game in August, is hoping to establish himself as a regular.
“I wish I could rise to the occasion, and I’m really happy to be given this opportunity,” Shikabala said
“There are some high expectations for me, and everyone wants to see Egypt in their best form.
“I will do my best for the national team, and I won’t settle for anything less than a regular spot in Egypt’s starting line-up.”
Shikabala returned to Egypt’s fold after producing a host of scintillating displays with Zamalek in the Egyptian Premier League this season.
Six more players from the White Knights in Mido, Abdul-Wahed Al-Sayed, Mohamed Fathallah, Hani Saied, Mohamed Abdul-Shafi and Hazem Emam were also called up to Egypt’s provisional squad.
Former PAOK Saloniki man Shikabala believes that his Zamalek teammates will help him blend with the African champions.
“We are compatible at Zamalek and that will definitely help us with Egypt,” he commented.
The African Cup of Nations gets underway in January 10th.
