Wigan, inspired by the formidable Zaki, host Boro who have gained no points from their previous three games.

Mido highlighted the importance of the game for his side as he heaped praise upon his compatriot from the opposition.

"We are all proud to see Zaki excelling with Wigan, I said before that he is one of few Egyptian strikers who can make it to the Premier League," Mido told Dream Sport TV.

Relationship

The Egyptian revealed that he is doing his best to support his international teammate and help him settle off the pitch.

"My relationship with Amr is great, I am always trying to be there for him in England. We are usually together, with (Mohamed) Shawky as well," he said.

"I am very happy to see Amr scoring goals with Wigan, I normally hope no other striker in the Premiership scores more than I do, but Amr is an exception.

"I hope we can be together on top of the scoring charts at the end of the season, but I think that scoring more than ten Premiership goals will be an achievement for any Egyptian striker."

Crucial

Mido is hopeful his team can stop the Bulldozer on Saturday though, following a disappointing run of results in late.

"I hope Amr won't be on target against us," joked Mido.

"The game is crucial for us, we have lost three on the trot and we are looking to end it at Wigan."

Boro are currently 16th in the Premiership, but a victory at JJB could see them jumping to the top half of the table.