The 24-year-old is still struggling with an ankle injury that kept him out of the league holders' last three matches, which they failed to win in any.

Ashour joins Mohamed Barakat who was ruled out with a knee injury, in addition to strikers Mohamed Ghaddar and Francis Doe.

Meanwhile, 17-year-old center-half Rami Hesham was included in the squad for the first time ever, a few hours after signing a professional contract with the club.

Out-of-favor midfielder Mohamed Shawky also made the 18-man list, despite rumors linking him with an exit from the club this winter.

Ahli's squad:

Goalkeepers: Mahmoud Aboul-Saoud, Mohamed Mokhtar

Defenders: Wael Gomaa, Mohamed Samir, Ahmed Al-Sayed, Ahmed Fathi, Rami Hesham, Sayed Moawad, Sherif Abdul-Fadil

Midfielders: Hossam Ghaly, Ahmed Shokri, Mohamed Abou-Treika, Moataz Eno, Mohamed Shawky, Afrotto, Shehab Ahmed

Strikers: Mohamed Fadl, Geddo