Al-Ahly coach Hossam El-Badri is likely to stay in his role beyond the end of the current season despite being heavily criticised by the Red Devils' faithful, a senior official at the club told the Egyptian radio on Wednesday. The Cairo giants have all but sealed a sixth consecutive Egyptian Premier League title in their first season under the guidance of El-Badri, who took over at the club last summer following the resignation of Portuguese Manuel Jose. Jose earned a cult status among Ahly's fans after steering their team to a host of local and continental triumphs during his glorious reign. Although Ahly are still fighting on three fronts this season - the league, cup and Champions League - El-Badri's work remains subject of criticism. He is blamed for failing to instill into his team an exciting brand of football that was attached to his predecessor. One point separate Al-Ahly from a customary league triumph but El-Badri's future was still thrown into doubt. However, Al-Ahly's marketing director Adli Al-Qaeyi reflected the club's trust in the abilities of El-Badri. "I think Badri's deal will be extended because he has done a good job in his first season with the club," Al-Qaeyi told Egyptian radio on Wednesday. Al-Ahly need just one point from their remaining four matches to wrap up their 35th league title. They ended any hopes Zamalek had of launching a late assault on the title by scoring in stoppage time to hold their arch-rivals to a thrilling 3-3 draw last Friday.
