Ghaly apologises for tantrum
Ghaly's actions have angered the White Hart Lane faithful
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Monday, 14, May 2007 02:03
Tottenham midfielder Hossam Ghaly has apologised to the club and the fans for losing his temper as he was substituted against Blackburn Rovers last week.
The Egyptian international stormed off down the tunnel without acknowledging manager Martin Jol as he was withdrawn midway through the second half after himself coming on as a substitute.
And in a display of petulance that has angered the Spurs faithful, Ghaly threw his shirt to the ground in disgust and appeared to dust his hands as he did so - prompting angry chants from the terraces throughout the remainder of the match.
"I am just so angry with myself," he told the Tottenham website.
"I have always considered it an honour to wear the Tottenham shirt and I never intended to show any disrespect."
Ghaly said it was a combination of his own frustration at his play and the reaction of the fans to what he considered a below-par performance that led to his actions as he left the pitch.
"I knew things weren't happening for me out there, my play was terrible and I could hear the crowd jeering me. I was so upset at the fans' reaction," he said.
"I have enjoyed playing in front of the club's supporters all season and I felt I had given of my best all the time and played some decent football.
"It is always hard to accept being substituted after such a short period of time and I was upset and taken aback by the cheering. I am a player who plays with my heart.
"I know my reaction was totally wrong. I have apologised to the manager and I also want to apologise to the fans. I hope they don't judge me on this incident alone."
As a result of his actions, Ghaly was dropped from the Spurs squad for the final match at home to Manchester City yesterday, which the home side won 2-1 to secure fifth place and a Uefa Cup spot next season.