Mohamed Salah has been included in Egypt’s squad for World Cup 2018 as he seeks to shake off a shoulder injury in time to play some part in the finals.
The Liverpool forward forms part of Hector Cuper’s plans despite nursing an ailment which threatened to dash his international dreams entirely this summer.
Having tangled with Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos in the Champions League final, the 25-year-old was forced from the field in tears as fears were immediately raised as to his possible involvement at Russia 2018.
Salah was quick to air his confidence that he would recover in time, but mixed messages have been offered since then regarding a timescale on his rehabilitation.
The latest of those suggested that he would be sidelined for around three weeks, with medical assistance having been sought in Spain to help speed up the process.
It is, therefore, highly likely that a man who netted 44 times at club level In 2017-18 will sit out Egypt’s opening fixture against Uruguay on June 15.
He may, however, come into contention for a meeting with Russia on June 19, or be held back until a final Group A encounter with Saudi Arabia on June 25.
The Pharaohs are pinning their hopes on Salah being ready for as much competitive football as possible, with it his goals which booked them a ticket to a first World Cup finals since 1990.
Egypt topped Group E in qualification, besting Uganda, Ghana and Congo to qualify for the tournament.
