RANGERS star Bilel Mohsni has been forced to apologise to Tunisia manager Georges Leekens after storming off from the bench during a game to phone his mum to comfort him.

 

The erratic Ibrox stopper was upset to be dropped by Tunisia for their opening African Cup of Nations game against Cape Verde Islands.

Mohsni walked away from the bench and into the dressing room before the match was even over, causing outrage in Tunisia, with their media suggesting he was ready to quit the tournament and return to Glasgow.

Now the former Southend United player has offered an explanation and an apology to Belgian boss Leekens.

Mohsni said: "I was disappointed and frustrated that I wasn't playing.

"It's because I came here to play, but I respect the choices of the coach.

"I just went to the dressing room to call my mother to comfort me. I certainly wasn't making arrangements to go home.

"I call her when things aren't going well.

"It is important not to interpret the gesture negatively.

"I remain committed to Tunisia and the atmosphere in the team group is very good."

Mohsni's next game is tomorrow against Zambia in Group B.