Shikabala, who was loaned out by Zamalek to Al-Wasl last summer, has been left in the cold since the Emirate side dropped him from their squad in the winter break.

The Egypt international also became ineligible to re-join his parent club Zamalek as his future with the Whites remains unclear.

“The presence of Shikabala in training will not help the team,” Brazilian coach Vieira, who led Zamalek to nine straight league wins, told reporters.

“Professionally, it is not right to have him train with us when he is not registered in our squad.

“This is my way of working. I am a professional and I only deal with players eligible to play for my team.”

Shikabala’s absence has anything but affected Zamalek this season as Vieira’s men are unbeaten in all competitions so far.