Egypt sweat over Salah fitness ahead of Australia World Cup clash

Egypt are hoping Mohamed Salah will be fit enough to play against Australia in their World Cup last-16 tie in Dallas this Friday.

The superstar forward picked up a hamstring injury during Egypt’s final group game against Iran.

He was forced off in the 57th minute of that match in Seattle, sparking real worry among Egyptian fans and officials.

However, scans showed the injury was not as serious as first feared.

Salah was back on the training pitch on Tuesday, giving Egypt a major lift ahead of the knockout clash.

The Egyptian Football Association posted photos of the session online with the upbeat caption “The King is back.”

Head coach Hossam Hassan has tried to stay calm publicly and played down fears over his captain’s fitness.

Salah has been in fine form at this tournament, scoring against New Zealand and setting up two more goals along the way.

If he does miss out, Omar Marmoush is expected to step up and lead the attack.

The Manchester City striker was only used as a substitute against Iran and is said to be frustrated and hungry to start.

Many feel Marmoush has not yet shown his best football at this World Cup, and Friday is a massive chance to prove his worth.

Egypt’s defensive problems are also a big concern heading into the game.

Centre-back Mohamed Abdelmonem went off injured after just 14 minutes against Iran with a knee problem.

Left-back Ahmed Fatouh is likely to miss the match after also picking up a hamstring strain.

Fatouh only finished the Iran game because Egypt had already made all five of their substitutions.

Hamdi Fathi and Hossam Abdelmaguid are both carrying knocks too, leaving the manager with some very tough decisions at the back.

Australia will fancy their chances against an injury-hit Egyptian defence given how physical and well-organised they are.

Egypt have never won a World Cup knockout game before, making Friday’s tie a historic opportunity.

Everything could come down to whether their captain and talisman can take to the field.