CAIRO: Mohamed Abou-Trika has pledged his future with Ahly by signing a four-year extension to his contract with the league champions. "It is logic that Abou-Trika sees his future with Ahly, football director Hadi Khashaba told Ahly's official site. "It proves the unique caliber of the player and his loyalty to the club. The Egypt talisman was recently targeted by Emirate champions Ahly Dubai, but preferred to stay in Cairo, even though the Gulf offer was lucrative. However, Khashaba indicated that the extension has nothing to do with the Dubai bid. "This is not to make up for the Ahly Dubai offer. Abou-Trika signed a new contract because we need his efforts in the future, added the former Egypt international. "Above that, Abou-Trika is totally convinced that his future is here. Abou-Trika, whose old contract was due to expire in January 2011, joined Ahly from Tersana in the 2004 winter break. The 31-year-old significantly developed to become living legend for the Red Devils, inspiring the team to a host of titles under ex-manager Manuel Jose. He also played a pivotal role in Egypt's back-to-back African Cup of Nations titles in 2006 and 2008. On the personal level, Abou-Trika has been crowned BBC African Football of the Year in 2008 and came second after Emmanuel Adebayor in the CAF award.
