The 32-year-old has been out of action for two months with a recurring calf problem and even though he initially had a slim chance to play against Zamalek, his absence has been confirmed.

“Abou-Treika will not be ready for the derby despite resuming full training. He just needs some time before returning to matches,” Ahli doctor Walid Abdul-Baqi told the club’s website.

Ahli seem to prefer caution with their star man, who thought he had recovered from the nagging injury in a friendly game in Kuwait last month, only to suffer a recurrence.

Winger Ahmed Shokri has been also ruled out with a groin injury, but midfielder Mohamed Shawky is available for selection after recovering from a knee problem.

Shawky sustained the injury during the 1-0 win over Ittihad last month, but coach Manuel Jose refused to take him off after making his final substitution.