Anatomy of a Champion

Well, both sides – the English and the Egyptians – have been pleasantly surprised. His four goals in four games is a perfect return on manager Steve Bruce’s faith – who even said he’s the best finisher in the world – and Wigan’s impressive run of results has made them a fixture in the early season’s top six. Former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore even predicted he would win the golden boot this year. Here’s why he might be right:

Physique
His nickname is “the bulldozer”, and his 1.85m frame and broad shoulders provide ample reason why. He has the strength to hold up the ball, intimidate defenders, and burst into the box at high speeds.
Zaki has impressed everyone at Wigan, not least manager Steve Bruce and captain Mario Melchiot, who said his appetite for training and professionalism was among the best
at the club.

Work rate
Although his goalmouth tenacity has an element of single-mindedness about it, his work rate in the opposition’s half is tireless – including harrying defenders, bringing midfielders into play and linking with his strike partner.

Heading prowess
His ability in the air has added an important dimension to his national side’s more refined approach characterised by Mohammed Aboutreika and Mohamed Zidane. He scored with his head against the Ivory Coast in the African Cup of Nations semifinal.

Shooting power
He has made long-range strikes something of a speciality. He slammed in a 25-yarder against Ivory Coast in the African Cup semifinal, while he scored Wigan’s fifth against Hull City with a rasping strike off the bar.

Hunger
Zaki has impressed everyone at Wigan, not least manager Steve Bruce and captain Mario Melchiot, who said his appetite for training and professionalism was among the best
at the club.

Deadly finishing
The ultimate predator, he is a lethal finisher inside the six-yard box, instinctively knowing where the goal is. His first-time volley on his debut against West Ham proved his skills to
the Premiership.