Egypt's new manager has explained why Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah will not be named in his first selection group.
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It has been confirmed by Egyptian legend and new coach Hossam Hassan that the 31-year-old winger will miss the Pharaohs' international fixtures this month.
Salah, who has returned to action for the Reds, caused a stir during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations when he headed back to England mid-tournament due to a hamstring injury.
Hassan has said Salah and the Liverpool asked for Egypt to exclude him from their squad, and that they would not want to risk his full return to fitness.
"Salah's exclusion from the final squad came after a request from the player and his club, as he prefers to focus on his recovery and train with Liverpool," he said, according to Ahram Online.
"Salah is an invaluable asset to the national team, and his presence in the squad adds considerable strength to the Pharaohs. We had hoped for his participation.
"We cannot force a player to join the squad. We do not want to jeopardise his return to full performance following the injury."
The Pharaohs will compete in a friendly tournament in the United Arab Emirates between 22 and 26 March, with their opening match being against New Zealand.
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Salah came on as a substitute in Liverpool's 1-1 draw with Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday.
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