Egyptian international midfielder Tarek Hamed ahead of a game for his side Al-Ittihad. Photo: Al-Ittihad's official Twitter account.
Hamed, 34, underwent successful facial surgery on Monday after sustaining an injury during the team's 1-0 win against Tunisia's Club Sfaxien in the King Salman's Clubs Cup (Arab Cup) on Sunday.
“We were upset as Hamed sustained a very bad injury after a harsh and strong clash,” the Portuguese coach said in a press conference on Tuesday.
“I won’t rely on him in Wednesday’s game or even risk him at the time being,” he added.
Hamed had to leave the pitch shortly before halftime following a harmful clash with Sfaxien winger Hussein Ali who apologized later for this behavior.
Ittihad Jeddah will be facing their Iraqi counterparts in the third and final round of the group stage. Ittihad won the first two games against Esperance and Sfaxien and have already secured their place in the quarter finals.
The Egyptian international Hamed, who is known for his tough-tackling style, was a crucial member of Ittihad Jeddah's squad that won both the Saudi Pro League and the Saudi Super Cup this season.
Since joining Ittihad Jeddah on a two-year deal last summer after his contract with Zamalek expired, Hamed has played 30 games with the Saudi Champions.
(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)
Short link: