Celtic’s Haissem Hassan set to miss Egypt friendly against South Africa

Celtic winger Haissem Hassan is expected to miss Egypt’s next friendly against South Africa and return early to the club’s training base at Lennoxtown, according to reports.

Hassan was called up for Egypt’s fixtures during the extended international break, despite earlier reports linking him with an injury in September last year. He featured in the national team’s matches against Angola and South Sudan.

However, reports now suggest the 6.5m signing will not be involved when Egypt face South Africa. He is among a number of important players expected to be unavailable for the friendly.

Egyptian outlet Ahram reports that Hassan will be rested to give him time to recover. Mohamed Salah and Nice defender Mohamed Abdelmonem are also expected to sit out the match.

Ahram said the former Real Oviedo player “will not participate”, allowing him to return to Glasgow ahead of Celtic’s next fixture.

Hassan joined Celtic for £6.5m during the most recent transfer window. He has made nine appearances for Martin O’Neill’s side this season and has registered one assist.

His next opportunity to play for Celtic is expected to come against Motherwell next weekend. The club have not yet officially confirmed Martin O’Neill’s future.

Hassan has yet to make a major impact on the pitch since arriving at Celtic, but he will be aiming to impress after the international break.