The 33-year-old has been sidelined since a previous knee injury reoccurred in January, and he's currently undergoing an intensive recovery program in Portugal.

"I started jogging a couple of days ago. Now I need 30 or 45 days to get back in training," the veteran told Ahli TV.

Although he's still far from being fit, Al-Nahhas said he was delighted when his boss Manuel Jose paid him a visit.

"Jose is keen to be updated on my status. He even came to see me in his homeland Portugal," he added.

Al-Nahhas had two anterior cruciate ligament operations in the past two years.

The absence of the experienced sweeper has abysmally affected Ahli's rearguard, especially after the departure of his fellow defender Rami Adel.

Adel joined Masri on a loan basis after falling out with the Red Devils' coaching staff.