Zaki clears air with Bruce

Bruce publicly expressed his disappointment at Zaki's failure to return on time from international duty with Egypt earlier this month, revealing it was the fourth time it had happened and describing him as the most "unprofessional" player he had ever worked with.

It appeared the relationship between player and club was irretrievably damaged but Zaki told Al-Hayat TV: "I clarified many things to Bruce. He understood my reasons for staying in Egypt during the past week but told me I should have returned immediately to England after the Zambia match."

He added: "He wanted my hamstring injury to be assessed by Wigan medics. I apologised to him and we ended up laughing.

"I may return to training after a week. I'm determined to do my best in the remaining Premier League matches."

Wigan chief executive Brenda Spencer confirmed Zaki had apologised for his behaviour after being fined by the club.

Along with manager Steve Bruce, she had a meeting with the on-loan striker and his agent Nader Shawkey on Friday.

According to Spencer, Zaki apologised to both her and the manager and made a further apology to all of his team-mates and coaching staff.

She said: "He also wants to apologise to the supporters who have been so good to him since his arrival in England.

"He said the reason for his behaviour was personal but he understands he has done wrong and will accept his punishment."