Zaki is so like Big AI: claim

Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England), Sept 18, 2008

NEW Premier League scoring sensation Amr Zaki has been likened to Alan Shearer after his stunning start to the season.

Wigan boss Steve Bruce spent months negotiating a deal for the Egypt international, who has scored five goals in as many games since agreeing a season-long loan deal from Zamalek.

Wigan owner Dave Whelan concedes to being stunned when he heard of Bruce's interest in Zaki, but has since been bowled over by the 25-year-old.

"When you look at this lad and his build, he is the same height, weight, everything about him, he is like Alan Shearer," insisted Whelan.

"He has the same confidence when he gets the ball, he knows where the goal is, he doesn't need to look up, he has this instinct.

"Strikers like that have an instinct as to where the goal is.

"Certain people have it and Alan Shearer was one who had it in abundance, and this lad is the same.

"He has this ability to score goals. Sometimes there is no danger, but then, wham, and the ball is in the back of the net."

Not so wonderful in Whelan's eyes is Newcastle owner Mike Ashley, who has earned a stinging rebuke from the 72-year-old.

"I know Mike Ashley quite well as I was running JJB (Sports) when he was with Sports Direct, and he is a bit unusual," said Whelan.

"He is a very good retailer, but at managing a football club, no.

"Especially with him being a Tottenham supporter and then going up to Newcastle, a club that is a different kettle of fish to most in the land.

"The fans up there eat, breathe and live for one thing, and that is Newcastle United.

"Unless you put your whole heart into it, are a 100% Geordie and are backing them, then they will give you some stick.

"He has got it, and he deserves it."

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PREDATOR: Zaki