“I love Algeria and Islam rules my behaviour,” says Abu Trika

As part of his visit to Algeria at the invitation of sports newspaper El Haddaf to honour him as the best Arab player, Egyptian football player Mohamed Abu Trika talked to Echorouk about this visit and Algeria.What is your feeling about being honoured in Algeria?I would like to thank El Haddaf newspaper for this invitation. It shows friendship ties between the two countries. I am very happy for being in my country which I love so much.How was your welcome here in Algeria?I am very delighted for that welcome. I hope there will be similar initiatives to reinforce friendship ties between brother peoples.You seem tired of the trip?I am very tired because I played yesterday for the national squad (the interview was made on Monday). I directly came to Algeria to keep my word for Algeria.What does Algeria represent to you?When Algeria’s name is mentioned, I have a special feeling because I love it so much and I love its people.CAF President Issa Hayatou said he wished you were selected as the best player in the world?I am very proud to hear that from Issa Hayatou. I will work hard to reach this title to honour the Arab and Muslim players.You have a special way of scoring goals. How do you justify that?My behaviour as Muslim is ruled by Islam. I always behave in accordance with Islamic precepts which are against extremist and racist acts.What do you say about the match Algeria vs Egypt?It will be a sportive happy event between two brother teams. The winner will be an Arab team anyway and that what we hope at the end. Yet, we must not forget Rwanda and Zambia because they have the same chances.Egyptians are asking for qualification to the World Cup?The 2010 World Cup qualification is the dream of all Egyptians but we must not deviate from sport to reach the World Cup objective.What do you say about the June 7th’s match?We will meet on June 7 with God willing and the best team will win. I hope that the next match will reflect friendship relations. We must stand by the side of the team which will reach the World Cup.