Salem Al-Dawsari and Ollie Watkins return to Al Hilal training before Saudi clasico

Salem Al-Dawsari has returned to training with Al Hilal as he continues his rehabilitation from knee tendon surgery.

The Saudi Arabia winger has been sidelined since undergoing the operation last July. He took part in part of Al Hilal’s training session as he follows a phased programme designed to help him make a gradual return to competitive football, according to Al Riyadiya.

Ollie Watkins was also back with the squad after completing his rehabilitation programme for lower-back pain. The England forward had been working separately while recovering from the injury.

However, Theo Hernandez remains on a treatment programme for a hamstring injury, while Ali Lajami is also continuing his recovery after suffering a thigh problem.

Al Hilal have been given nine days off during the ongoing international break. Saudi Arabia are competing in Gulf 27, with the national team having reached the semi-finals.

Saudi Arabia will face Qatar on Saturday in the last-four tie. The break has provided Al Hilal’s injured players with additional time to continue their recovery before the club’s next fixtures.

Al Hilal will return to action against Al-Ittihad in the Saudi clasico on 10 October. The match will be played at Kingdom Arena and forms part of matchweek eight of the Saudi league.

Three days later, on 13 October, Al Hilal will face Qatar’s Al Sadd in the AFC Champions League.