With Percy Tau said to have missed two days of training with Al Ahly this week, the reason for the South African's absence has now been clarified.
Tau featured as a second-half substitute during Al Ahly's 6-5 defeat on penalties to Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup last Saturday.
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The Bafana Bafana star also converted from the penalty spot, but it wasn't enough, as the Egyptian giants missed an opportunity to face Real Madrid in the final of the tournament on Wednesday night.
It has since been revealed that Tau did not participate in training for two days this week, with some reports in Egypt suggesting it could be due to him protesting against the Al Ahly management for allegedly trying to force him out of the club.
However, a report by WinWin.com now claims that the 30-year-old was absent from training due to a cold, rather than any other contentious reasons.
It is also said that Tau is not facing any sanctions from Al Ahly for his recent behaviour, as relations between him and the club hierarchy remain cordial.
The former Brighton Hove Albion forward has seemingly lost his starting berth in Marcel Koller's side, as he has only played 482 minutes in all competitions this season, according to Transfermarkt.
Elsewhere, the ex-Mamelodi Sundowns star has been linked with a shock move to Al Ahly's rivals, Zamalek.
Zamalek are reportedly looking to sign a capable foreign player to replace departed stars Samson Akiniola and Ibrahima Ndaye.
Tau's contract is set to expire in June 2025, and he has only two goals to show for his efforts this season so far.
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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