Anything less than a win over Military Production in Saturday's Egyptian Premier League game will most likely seal the fate of Zamalek coach Henri Michel. The Frenchman has failed to turn around Zamalek's fortunes since replacing Swiss tactician Michel Decastel at the helm and patience is no longer an option for the Cairo giants, who are experiencing one of their worst ever league starts. Zamalek, who lost twice and drew once in their first four games under the guidance of Michel, are 11th in the 16-team league table with eight points from seven games, nine behind leaders and arch-rivals Ahli. "The board of directors will convene on Friday next week to make decisions over the team's poor run of results," board member Ibrahim Youssef, a prominent Zamalek defender in the 1980s, said. "We want to see what Zamalek will do against Military production before taking any decisions." Rumors even surfaced that Egypt great and former Ahli and Zamalek striker Hossam Hassan, who is currently managing second-division side Telecom Egypt, will be appointed as the team's coach.
Mido: improved display The White Knights' lack of sharpness was clear during their 1-1 draw with Gouna on Tuesday but they could take heart from Mido's improved display. The towering striker scored Zamalek's only goal – his first one this season after joining from Middlesbrough on a season-long loan – and was a menace to opposing defenders throughout the game. Midfielder Hassan Mostafa, who arrived in the close season on a free transfer, was left out of Zamalek's squad for the game against promoted Military Production for no apparent reason. They will also miss off-form striker Amr Zaki, who was sent off against Gouna for dissent. Last season's runners-up Ismaili will be looking to make up for their disappointing 1-1 home draw with Gaish when they visit Gouna earlier in the day. A victory over one of the league newcomers will take them to within two points of leaders Ahli, who meet ENPPI on Monday.
