Shikabala, currently the league's joint top-scorer, pulled out of Egypt's friendly win over Australia due to a nagging back injury.

But the flamboyant midfielder is now ready to face the team he scored a wonder goal against in the most recent meeting in Port-Said.

"Yes Shikabala has only trained a couple of times since the last match (against Ismaili), but he is ready to play on Sunday," Zamalek assistant manager Tarek Soliman said.

Shikabala netted four goals in as many matches for Zamalek of late, leading the crisis-hit club to the summit of the Egyptian league.

But manager Hossam Hassan will have to be wary of the challenge of his former club, who have been fairly impressive under Mokhtar Mokhtar so far this term.

The Port-Said giants, who were no more than relegation-fighters in previous seasons, can move up to second place with a victory in Cairo.

"I believe it is a difficult game for both sides," said Masri boss Mokhtar.

"We know that Zamalek are top of the table and have a fine technical staff, but we are determined to please the Port-Said fans."

Team news

Zamalek miss holding midfielder Ibrahim Salah, who picked up an injury during his Egypt debut against Australia last week.

Striker Amr Zaki is out with a long-term knee problem, whereas Hussein Yasser is away on international duty with Qatar.

Masri, on the other hand, are at full strength as it was confirmed that Mokhtar will make no changes to the side that beat Ismaili 2-0 in the very last match.