Reports suggesting that Ahmed Hassan's relationship with Ahli coach Hossam Al-Badri is strained resurfaced after he kicked an icebox while walking off the pitch in Friday's Cairo derby. The veteran midfielder was included in Ahli's starting line-up against arch-rivals Zamalek before being replaced two minutes past the hour mark, making way for youngster Shehab Ahmed. Ahli snatched a last-gasp 3-3 draw through a goal from Mohamed Barakat but Hassan's behavior proved to be a major talking point in media after the game. The Egypt skipper, who is linked with a move to Belgian side Lierse after the end of the season, once again dismissed reports of a rift between him and Al-Badri. "I did not get angry with Al-Badri for replacing me, I was angry with myself," he said in a television interview after the thrilling clash. "I was not surprised to be substituted, the technical staff informed me that I will be replaced five minutes earlier. I did not object to their decision. "I was just hoping to play better, that's all." Hassan, 34, is seemingly still suffering from the effects of January's African Cup of Nations. He was inspirational for Ahli before heading off to Angola to take part in the biennial tournament, which Egypt won for an unprecedented third successive time. He played a key role in that triumph, scoring four goals and dishing out several assists to his teammates. He was named the best player in the tournament. But Hassan hardly replicated that form when he reported back from international duty, with fatigue restricting his role to some cameo appearances in the second half of the season. However, his contribution to Ahli's imminent league triumph will remain vital. He is the team's second top scorer with seven goals, two behind striker Emad Meteb. The Red Devils, who enjoy a nine-point lead over second-placed Zamalek, need to get one point from their remaining four games to wrap up a sixth consecutive title. "We produced a spirited display against Zamalek. The result was satisfactory for both sides," Hassan added.
