Sunderland ace Ahmed Elmohamady said his compatriot Amr Zaki had given him a few tips about how to make his name in England, and also revealed the Black Cats' top-four ambition in the same brief interview. The Egypt international, who moved to the Stadium of Light in the summer on an extendable season-long loan from ENPPI, has shown a great deal of consistency in the Premier League over the past months. His scintillating form earned him a regular berth in the starting line-up and Sunderland coach Steve Bruce is keen to turn his deal into a permanent transfer, amid reported interest from Premiership giants Arsenal and Manchester United. But ironically, it turned out that Zaki, who failed to attain long-term success under Bruce at Wigan Athletic two years ago, was the one who gave Elmo some advice on how to be a prominent figure in the elite competition. "Zaki talked to me about my adventure with Sunderland more than anybody," the right-sided midfielder said in Arabic during an interview with SAFC TV. "I will benefit from his tips, God willing... I intend to stay in the Premier League for long, not just for a year or two and then get back to Egypt." Top-four Place Elmohamady assured that Sunderland are seeking to end the season in a top-four spot in order to secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League. "The players and the coaching staff are aiming for a top-four finish. It's an objective for us," the 23-year-old stated. Sunderland now lie sixth in the league table on 19 points, three behind fourth-placed Manchester City.
Bruce lauded Elmo's capabilities more than once Bruce's men have only registered four victories out of 13 games, a fact that doesn't tell the whole story. Sunderland put in impressive displays against all high-profile teams, having beaten City 1-0 late in August and surprisingly crushed defending champions Chelsea 3-0 in their last game. They also held Arsenal, Liverpool, United and Tottenham Hotspur to draws. Sunderland have never qualified for the Champions League. Great Club, Great City Speaking of the environment at the Stadium of Light, Elmohamady once again dished out praise for his teammates and manager. He also reiterated that he feels comfortable in the city of Sunderland. "Bruce is a very capable coach and also very respectable. He loves commitment and has a lot of faith in his players," the pacey winger, who had been on Blackburn Rovers' wish-list last year, said. "I always try to live up to his expectations. "Everything is great at the club. Everybody has been quite helpful since my arrival. "The city is great too. People are always friendly here and I feel as though I'm in Egypt. It's a real home from home to me."
