Monday, 6 May, 2002, 16:30 GMT 17:30 UK

Egypt legend dies

Al Ahly are given the Club of the Century award
Under Selim Al Ahly won the Club of the Century award

Egypt legend Saleh Selim has died this morning after a long battle with stomach cancer.

Selim was considered to be one of the pioneers of Egyptian football, being one of the first Egypt nationals to play abroad - for Graz in Austria - and then later the president of the African Club of the Century, Al Ahly. He was a member of one of the most aristocratic and athletic families in Egypt. He played together with his brothers Abdelwahab and Tarek, at both club level, for Al Ahly, and international level. He was one of the best players in the 50's and 60's and won 19 titles with Al Ahly. He moved to Graz in 1963. He became so popular that he started an acting career, which brought him even more glamour, and quit football in 1967. The Maestro In 1980 he became Al Ahly's president and was known for being a dictator. Ahly, the most popular club in Africa and the Middle East is known for its high standards and it is believed that he was responsible for creating and putting these idealistic principles. Selim was known among his colleagues by the 'Maestro' due to his style in charge; under him his club became one of the richest firms in Egypt.

His body is expected to arrive to Cairo today to end the final chapter of one or Egypt's football legends.