Bafana Bafana star Percy Tau has now received an unexpected gesture from Al Ahly boss Marcel Koller ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
While he may have been part of the South African attack that misfired during a goalless draw against Lesotho in a friendly encounter on Wednesday, a reported phone call with his club manager may serve as a source of inspiration for the 29-year-old.
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According to Face Masr, the Swiss manager surprised the former Brighton Hove Albion star with a call that aimed to boost the player's confidence ahead of Africa's showpiece tournament.
Tau's recent performances with the Red Devils are considered to have been underwhelming. He received ctiticism by club legends after missing an opportunity in front of goal and giving away a penalty in the Egyptian giants' 2-0 loss to Brazilian side Fluminense in the FIFA Club World Cup in December.
He was also deemed to be not as effective as his fellow attackers during Al Ahly's 4-2 victory over Modern Future in the final of the Egyptian Super Cup.
Koller, however, is said to consider the South African as one of the team's most important players. It is also believed that the pair have a very strong relationship, which was reportedly the main reason behind the call.
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The Egyptian side, on an executive level, have also hinted at the faith they have in the forward by reportedly tabling a contract offer that would see the former Mamelodi Sundowns star remain at Al Ahly for the next three seasons, should he decide to sign the agreement upon his return from AFCON.
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