Vancouver, June 21 -- Egypt coach Hossam Hassan has dismissed speculation of unrest involving star forward Mohamed Salah, emphasising that all 26 players in the squad are equally important and that he treats everyone professionally without favouritism.

He praised Salah's discipline, leadership, and positive influence on his teammates, describing him as a role model within the squad.

Hassan stressed that team decisions, including substitutions, are made for the benefit of the national team and said Salah fully respects those decisions.

He dismissed speculation surrounding the star forward and expressed confidence that Salah would continue to have a positive impact ahead of the match against New Zealand.

Salah was instrumental in Egypt'...