Bruce calm over Zaki future
11 Oct 2008 - 12:36:05
Wigan Athletic manager Steve Bruce is upbeat about the prospects of turning striker Amr Zaki's loan deal into a permanent stay at the end of the season.
The 25-year-old Egypt international has made a flying start with the Latics, scoring six goals in nine games since his arrival from El Zamalek.
That form has alerted several bigger clubs to Zaki's potential, although the player says he will not make a decision on his future until next summer.
Bruce told the Daily Star: "There's an agreement in principle with his club. There's a lot of the season to go, so there's no rush. Zaki s ours at the moment, so let's enjoy it while we can.
"We'll try to set up a deal when the time is right. We're in pole position to sign the lad because he's here at the moment.
"It's a double-edged sword - the better he does here, the more expensive he'll be. I've got to say he's started better than we thought he would.
"We brought him here because we thought he could make an impact and we're delighted because he's certainly done that.
"There's a long way to go yet, a long winter ahead. Hopefully he'll continue how he's been doing."