Salem Al-Dawsari’s return boosts Al Hilal ahead of Al Ittihad clash

Salem Al-Dawsari has raised hopes of featuring in Al Hilal’s meeting with Al Ittihad after taking part in the opening section of Wednesday’s team training.

The Saudi Arabia captain joined the first part of the main group session before continuing with an individual rehabilitation programme under the supervision of Al Hilal’s medical staff.

His involvement is regarded as a positive indication that he is nearing full fitness and could be included in the squad for Saturday’s Roshn Saudi League classic.

Al Hilal have also welcomed progress from Hamad Al-Yami and French star Theo Hernandez. Both players completed ball-based fitness exercises as they moved into the final stages of their respective rehabilitation programmes, increasing the possibility of their return to competitive action soon.

The session formed part of Al Hilal’s preparations for their home fixture against Al Ittihad in the eighth round of the Roshn Saudi League. The match will take place at 21:00 on Saturday, 10 October.

Al Hilal go into the game at the top of the table with 18 points, while Al Ittihad are second on 17 points from seven matches.

The visitors are only one point ahead of Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah, who occupy third and fourth place respectively, adding further significance to a meeting between the leading sides.