Zamalek will once again miss the spark of Shikabala but they have a chance to go within one point of leaders Ahli when they host Gaish in the Egyptian Premier League on Thursday. Ahli, who are bidding to win a sixth successive title, were held to a 1-1 draw by Masri after playing the majority of the game with ten men following Francis Doe's first-half dismissal. The Red Devils' second draw in five games gives Zamalek the opportunity to go second and narrow the gap with their arch-rivals. The White Knights will have to do without talented but controversial playmaker Shikabala, who will not be able to play against Gaish despite being initially included in the team's squad for the match. The former PAOK Saloniki man was deemed fit for the game after recovering from an injury but was suddenly omitted, fuelling speculation that he might have fallen out with new coach Henri Michel. "What was reported that Shikabala is in a dispute with Michel is total nonsense," Shikabala's teammate Mido told FilGoal.com.
Shikabala misses out on the game "Michel decided to exclude Shikabala because he wanted him ready for the game against Ismaili next week." Michel, who returned for a second stint with Zamalek following the sacking of Michel Decastel, led them to a 1-0 victory over Ittihad in his first match in charge of the team. Gaish will be looking to cause an upset after a poor start to the season saw them gain just four points from as many matches. They suffered a 4-2 defeat to Ahli in their last league game despite putting in a fine display. Petrojet, who host promoted Military Production, also have a chance to ignite an early race with Ahli and Zamalek. They slipped behind Ahli after slumping to a surprising 1-0 defeat to newcomers Gouna but a victory over Military will take them to within one point of the six-time African champions.
