Egypt midfielder, Mohamed Elneny, is ruled out of the African Nations Cup semi-final against Burkina Faso as a result of a calf injury, Coach Hector Cuper has said.
The Arsenal player suffered the injury in training over the weekend and missed Sunday’s 1-0 quarter-final
win over Morocco in Port Gentil.
Cuper said the injury was serious enough to keep Elena out of the team for the next match as well, although he would have a chance of playing in the final on Sunday if Egypt could make it.
Elneny played in all three of Egypt’s group matches but has been the subject of much derision from pundits in his home country who have criticised his efforts and place in the team.
But Cuper responded with a stout defence of the midfielder:”I’m the only one responsible. I don’t mind selecting whoever you want me to select, but who is going to take the responsibility in the end?”
“I can’t satisfy 90 millions that is not football. In football, the manager is the one who takes the
responsibility.
‘“We always look for the team’s best interest, which is more important than the players, the formation and myself. I have full trust in Elneny.”
Egypt will play Burkina Faso in Libreville on Wednesday.
Source: NAN