Egypt captain Mohamed Salah is facing a fitness battle ahead of the World Cup last-32 tie against Australia after suffering a hamstring injury. The 34-year-old forward was substituted during Egypt's 1-1 draw with Iran and team doctor Mohamed Abou confirmed a hamstring strain after scans.
Salah has begun a treatment programme but the Egyptian Football Association has made no suggestion as to whether he will be fit to play against Australia in Dallas on 3 July. Egypt coach Hossam Hassan expressed optimism about Salah's chances of recovery, saying: 'I spoke with Salah and, God willing, the injury doesn't seem serious. He assured me it would be fine, that it's not a serious injury.'
Salah has scored once and provided two assists so far in this World Cup as Egypt qualified from Group G in second place. His injury is a significant concern for the Egyptian team, who will rely heavily on their star player to progress in the tournament.
Salah has a history of hamstring problems, having missed three weeks of action from late April due to a similar injury. However, he was able to recover in time to feature in Liverpool's final two games of the season.