The Dervishes, who started the season with three consecutive wins, have only secured four points from their last six games, which saw them slip to 9th place of the table.

While his job remains seriously in the balance, Dutch manager Mark Wotte is now looking to prepare for the big game by raising his players' morale.

"We are organizing private sessions to treat the players psychologically ahead of the Ahli meeting," assistant coach Ahmed Qenawi told FilGoal.com.

"Some players were affected by the team's recent run of defeats.

"But now they know we've got no option but to win against Ahli if we want to remain in contention for the title."

In addition to their domestic stumbling, Ismaili crashed out of the Champions League group stage in this season's competition, finishing last after JS Kabylie, Ahli and Heartland.

Keepers' contracts

Meanwhile, Ismaili goalkeeping coach Ahmed Al-Dahrawi revealed that reserve goalkeepers Mohamed Fathi and Mohamed Awwad are set for contract extensions.

Second-choice keeper Fathi was due to run out of contract in the summer, but has agreed a three-year deal.

Teenage amateur Awwad, who has been targeted by Zamalek, is set for a five-year professional deal.

Ismaili number one Mohamed Sobhi has already penned a four-year deal in January.