Zamalek's newly-appointed boss Hossam Hassan got hero's reception when he managed the team for the first time in training on Tuesday night. Around 7,000 Zamalek fans attended the session to welcome the former Egypt star, who took the Cairo giants' helm on Monday following the sacking of French tactician Henri Michel. The crowd chanted Hassan's name ahead of the session, calling on him to help Zamalek get back to winning ways. The 43-year-old legend was gladly waving back to them. On the other hand, playmaker Shikabala has returned to training for the first time after Zamalek's 2-0 loss to Police Union on Sunday. In the League game, Shikabala was jeered by his own fans shortly after the White knights conceded the second goal, which caused him to burst into tears after a brief verbal exchange with the spectators. In an attempt to atone for their angry attack on Shikabala, the fans chanted 23-year-old's name.
Shikabala The former PAOK Saloniki man first ignored the supporters' reconciliation efforts, although goalie Abdul-Wahed Al-Sayed was urging him not to turn them down. Eventually, head coach Hassan coaxed him into responding to the fans, which prompted an imposing roar. Zamalek youngster Hossam Arafat has also got back in training after overcoming the minor concussion he suffered from early this month. Under the guidance of Michel and Swiss manager Michel Decastel, Zamalek lost five games out of ten, and now they are languishing in 10th place with 11 points. Hassan is due to make his coaching debut with the five-time African champions when they take on Harras Hodoud in the Egyptian Premier League on Thursday.
