With a Premier League-based African footballer reportedly refusing to warm up as a substitute during an important 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier last week, the reason for his action has now seemingly been revealed.

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According to reports, Arsenal midfielder Mohamed Elneny rejected his international boss' instructions to warm up at half-time in Egypt's 1-1 draw with Kenya last Thursday.

The 28-year-old was said to be furious with his manager's decision to bench him for the AFCON 2021 qualifier after he was reportedly promised a start.

Annoyed with boss Hossam El-Badry, Elneny thus seemingly decided to not warm up as requested at the halfway mark of the clash, according to All Africa.

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Speaking about the incident, Egyptian journalist and football specialist Ahmed Abdelbaset revealed that the Arsenal midfielder had previously asked to be overlooked for selection due to El-Badry's presence.

"After the first training camp under Hossam El-Badry, Elneny asked not to be called up again, because he wasn't starting," he told OnTime Sport TV.

"He was constantly on the bench during the previous qualifying matches, and even though he was promised to start he was still benched against Kenya.

"El-Badry asked Elneny to warm up during the half-time because he was planning on subbing him on but he refused and told him he wasn't going to play."

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Elneny has made 78 appearances for the Pharaohs since his national debut 10 years ago, scoring six goals along the way.