CAIRO – Al Ahly coach Ricardo Soares has explained the reasons behind the recent omission of Bafana star Percy Tau from the matchday squad following rumours of his ostracization.
Egyptian giants Al Ahly held Al Mokawloon to a goalless draw in the Egyptian Premier League on Saturday and again Tau was conspicuous in his absence prompting speculation.
The struggling South African international last played on June 22 after being sidelined with a long injury and was ruled out of the squad again at the weekend despite returning to training.
However, Soares, who was appointed to replace Pitso Mosimane at the club last month, cited Tau’s injury record as the reason for his slow reintegration into the starting XI.
“Percy Tau is not ready for the game yet, so he hasn’t been called up for the game,” the Portuguese tactician said in his post-match press conference.
“We also have to keep in mind that we have a long list of injuries, which makes us cautious when making decisions.”
Since joining Al Ahly from English Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion last year, Tau has been involved in 14 goals for the club (eight goals and six assists) in 28 appearances across all competitions.
He has missed no less than nine games for Al Ahly due to injury.
