Ahly have urged Ahmed Fathi to decide on his future as soon as possible after his attempt to join English Premier League side Arsenal fell through. The 29-year-old right back, who played for Sheffield United and Hull City in England, underwent a summer trial at the Gunners but they eventually opted against signing him. His contract at Ahly expired at the end of the season after the Red Devils claimed an eighth consecutive Egyptian Premier League title but the club are keen to tie him down to a new deal. "We offered Fathi a contract extension. The offer is up to his great caliber," Ahly's newly-appointed football director Wael Gomaa, a rock-solid defender who also hung up his boots at the end of the season, said on the club's official website. "We have many commitments, especially in African competition, so we urged on Fathi to make his final decision in the next few days. "Fathi informed us before that he wants to play abroad, but we are still waiting for his decision over our new contract offer," Gomaa added. Fathi has been one of Ahly's key players since joining in 2007, with his versatility and defensive prowess helping Ahly to a host of titles. (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at@AO_Sportsand on Facebook atAhramOnlineSports.) http://english.ahram.org.eg/News/107538.aspx
