A Swiss kiss spoiled Egyptian footballer's joy at home

A kiss on the cheek between Egypt’s football star Mohammad Salah and a female presenter at an awards ceremony in Switzerland has sparked criticism from the Egyptian public.

The kiss came after the player was named best player of the Swiss Super League for the 2012-2013 season by the Swiss Association of Football Players (SAFP).

During the Swiss Golden Player Award ceremony which took place on Monday, the presenter called the player “a superhero” for Basel’s supporters.

Kissing between a man and a woman even as a greeting is frowned upon in some Arab countries.

Following the criticism the footballer faced from his fans Salah, said he was disappointed from the reactions.

“They have spoiled my joy as they forgot the prize and concentrated on the lady kissing me.” Salah said speaking to the Egyptian channel Al-Hayat.

“Anywhere I go here in Switzerland people applaud, while my native fans criticize me,” Salah added.

The Egyptian 21-year-old winger who signed his contract with the Swiss team FC Bassel in April 2012 is the third Egyptian player in the Swiss Super League along with Mahmoud Abdel-Moneim and Mohamed al-Nenny.

Egypt’s Salah was reported to be on the radar of several Premier League clubs including Tottenham and Liverpool after impressing in the UEFA Champions League for Basel this season.