Egypt FA Explains Absence Of Liverpool Striker Salah, Hegazi, Elmohamady For Nigeria Friendly

Egyptian FA's managing director Ehab Lehita has shared his expectations on Tuesday's high profile international friendly with Nigeria and the absence of big stars led by Liverpool forward, Mohamed Salah.

West Brom central defender Ahmed Hegazi and Aston Villa winger Ahmed Elmohamady were not in the traveling party to the Delta State capital as their clubs are battling for a playoff spot in the EFL Championship.

Arsenal midfielder Mohamed El Neny is in contention to start against the Super Eagles after he was rested for the 1-1 draw vs Republic of Niger on Saturday.

''Not only Salah is missing but three or four professional players that are not here also from the main eleven players, Hegazi, El Mohamady, Salah and locals also that are not coming,'' said Lehita at the pre-match press conference.

''The coach decided to have this friendly match with Nigeria to try new players.

''There are six or seven players new, so this is a good chance for them.''

The last time Egypt visited Nigeria on March 25, 2016, they forced the Super Eagles to a 1-1 draw in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, with Mohamed Salah netting the equaliser in the first minute of second-half stoppage time.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel