Egypt National Team Rests Mohamed Salah for South Sudan Clash

The Egyptian Football Federation has announced that star forward Mohamed Salah, who now plays for Trabzonspor, will not feature in the away match against South Sudan on September 29. Head coach Hossam Hassan and his staff made the decision primarily because the match will be played on an artificial turf pitch. The federation stated that the surface could pose a risk to Salah's fitness.

According to reports, the coaching staff held discussions with Salah before the previous match against Angola, and both sides agreed that the winger would sit out the South Sudan fixture. Officials explained that the aim is to protect the heavily-scheduled star from a potential injury. The precaution was reportedly taken due to the health risks that synthetic turf can pose to players.

Egypt's national team recently drew 0-0 with Angola in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. Following the away trip to South Sudan on Tuesday, September 29, Salah is expected to return to the squad for subsequent fixtures. The coaching staff's decision is aimed at ensuring the player remains fit and ready for the matches ahead.

Meanwhile, Salah's former Liverpool teammate Virgil van Dijk opened up about missing the Egyptian star. The Dutch defender admitted that several teammates are missed since Salah's departure, but singled him out in particular. Van Dijk said Salah's runs down the wing always gave him great confidence on the pitch, and he wished his former teammate continued success.