Ahmed Khaled faces three-month lay-off after injury in Zamalek defeat

Asyut Petroleum midfielder Ahmed Khaled says he is expected to miss three months after suffering an ankle fracture and ligament damage against Zamalek.

Khaled was injured during his side’s 1-0 defeat by Zamalek in the seventh round of the Egyptian Premier League at Borg El Arab Stadium.

He also revealed that Zamalek goalkeeper Mohamed Awad has contacted him to check on his condition and remains determined to follow his recovery until he returns to playing.

Speaking to On Sport, Khaled said: “I suffered an ankle fracture and a ligament tear. Thank God for everything, but Hamada El-Qalawy did not want to award us anything from the beginning of the match.

“I was carried off the pitch, but he refused to review the video assistant referee. I have nothing to say about him. The picture is clear, and the evidence is that I suffered a fracture.”

Khaled added: “Initially, I will be out of action for three months.”

He said Awad had offered to visit him in hospital but was unable to do so after Khaled travelled to Asyut.

“Mohamed Awad contacted me and wanted to visit me in hospital, but I travelled to Asyut,” Khaled said.

“Even at the stadium, he told me he would not leave me and that he would go with me. He is a very respectful person and is determined to keep checking on my condition until I return to the pitch.”

Khaled’s injury came as Asyut Petroleum suffered a narrow defeat against Zamalek, leaving them 16th in the Egyptian Premier League table with five points.