The Basel midfielder injured his troublesome shoulder following a collision in training as scans initially showed that he should be available for the September 10 match.

However, Egypt’s medical staff preferred to leave him out as the Pharaohs gear up for the more important final qualifying phase later this year.

Meanwhile, Ahli pair Wael Gomaa and Hossam Ashour have been dropped from Bob Bradley’s squad to avoid picking up a second yellow card.

Captain Gomaa was cautioned in the last win over Mozambique while club mate Ashour received a yellow card in the 4-2 victory in Zimbabwe.

Gomaa’s absence leaves Bradley with limited options at the heart of defense, having already lost Ahmed Hegazi with a long-term injury.