Ahli defense star Fathi sustained a groin injury in training, forcing Egypt manager Bob Bradley to call up Emam as a precaution.

Fathi has been an indispensable member of the Egypt defense during the past five years, playing a key role in the 2008 and 2010 Africa Cup of Nations triumphs.

Zamalek’s Emam, who usually plays second fiddle to Ahmed Samir, joins Ahmed Elmohamady as another option at right-back for Bradley.

Egypt face Ghana in Kumasi on October 15, one month before hosting the Black Stars in Cairo.