Algeria coach Vahid Halilhodzic has been angered by media questions as to whether his players are observing Ramadan.

Algeria coach Vahid Halilhodzic has turned on reporters repeatedly asking whether his players are observing Ramadan on the eve of their World Cup clash with Germany.

Germany take on the Algerians in Porto Alegre on Monday (Tuesday AEST) in their last 16 clash, but repeated questions about the Muslim month of fasting drew the coach’s wrath.

“Stop asking me about Ramadan or I will get up and leave,” fumed the Bosnia-born Halilhodzic as Ramadan started on Saturday.

“When you ask the question, you lack respect and I’d like you to focus on the football and nothing else.

“This is not the first time I coach a team with Muslims, I’m a Muslim myself.

“I have always allowed the players to make their own decision.”

The 61-year-old is riled by criticism from the Algerian press who alleged he had advised his players not to follow Ramadan.

“Unfortunately, I have read some newspapers, and one in particular, who continue to tarnish my image and question my honour and integrity,” he fumed.

“They have called for hatred and aggression against Vahid and his entourage, that’s disgusting!”

Source: AFP