Essam Al-Hadari said he is 'technically and mentally' ready to stand between the sticks when Egypt host Argentina in a friendly on Wednesday. The 35-year-old has only played one game since the 2008 African Cup of Nations in Ghana, but insists he is fully fit to start against the South American giants. "I have been training well with Ahli and the national team, so I think I am technically ready for the game," he told FilGoal.com. Al-Hadari has been subjected to heavy criticism after he left Ahli without permission last month to sign for Switzerland's FC Sion, invoking a clause in his contract. Subsequently, the veteran goalie has almost lost his rapport with the Reds' fans, who represent the majority of Egypt supporters, but he doesn't seem to be worried by expected taunts at Cairo Stadium. "I don't think the fans will do anything against me, I believe they are aware of my history and the honors I've achieved with the national team," he added. "Even if I was attacked, it won't bother me because I am experienced enough to deal with such situations and I am mentally ready for that." The under-fire keeper is facing competition from in-form Zamalek guardian Mohamed Abdul-Monsef, but coach Hassan Shehata has recently indicated that Hadari is his number one.
