Essam Al Hadary Chosen For Egypt Soccer Squad Despite Suspension

Cairo, Egypt (AHN) - Despite a suspension by his club team, Essam Al Hadary was called up for next week's international friendly against Argentina. The 35-year-old goalkeeper has been at the center of controversy for much of the past month over his attempt to transfer to Switzerland.

After making the move, Al Hadary then decided the transfer was not the correct course of action and returned to Egypt hoping to rejoin his Cairo-based Al Ahly club. He was given a three-week suspension, but was allowed to reclaim his spot on the Al Ahly roster.

Egyptian manager Hassan Shehata chose the same 23 players who participated in Egypt's successful defense of their African Cup of Nations championship last month in Ghana. March 26 is Egypt's first match since winning their 6th African title.

The Pharaoh's defeated Cameroon 1-0 in the final.

Al Hadary returned to Al Ahly for training last week despite the three week suspension. He had hoped that because of his long service at the Egyptian club, he would be allowed to end his contract and move to FC Sion for the 270,000 ($426,900) Euros price tag.

Upon returning to Egypt, the star goalkeeper said that he was unable to make the transfer because he had not given Al Ahly the required notice period. Most Egyptians believe that Gamal Mubarak, or another highly placed politician, made a call to the Egyptian international asking him to return to Egypt.