Mido backtracks on decision to resign as Zamalek coach

Zamalek coach Mido has reversed a sudden decision to resign from his post, he saidon Saturday."Out of respect to the club and its fans, I'm announcing that I will not resign," the31-year-old told Egyptian football website FilGoal.com."I will not leave unless the club decide I should. But I just want the fans tounderstand that I do not have the best players in the world and that I took charge ofthe team after the season had already started." Earlier in the day, Mido said he would step down despite being given a vote ofconfidence by the club's board of directors following a 1-0 defeat by Ismaily in theEgyptian Premier League."I will today resign as Zamalek's coach," Mido, a fan favourite, said on his Twitterfeed."Thanks to all the fans for their support, and thanks for the board of directors forstanding by me."Although Mido was credited with helping Zamalek play an attractive brand ofattacking football shortly after replacing Helmi Toulan as the team's coach lasJanuary, their recent inconsistent displays cast doubts over their title credentials.They lost twice in their last four games, including the defeat by Group B rivals Ismaily which jeopardized their chance of advancing to the final four-team mini-league phase.They are two points behind second-placed Ismaily and five adrift of leaders Petrojet,who played a game more, with three matches remaining.Mido's rotation policy was questioned by pundits who believed it had affected theharmony of the team. The White Knights have also lacked spark, with their forwardsstruggling to translate their domination into goals. Their porous defence leaked 15 goals in 17 matches but they have the best offensiverecord with 27 goals. Mido, who came through the youth ranks of Zamalek before playing for a host ofEuropean clubs including Tottenham Hotspur and AS Roma, is burdened withending the team's 10-year league drought.He enjoys overwhelming support among the White Knight's die-hard supporters.  Source: Ahram Online