Al-Ittihad welcome back George Ilenikhena but Hassan Kadesh remains a doubt for Al-Hilal clash

Al-Ittihad have been boosted by the return of striker George Ilenikhena, but uncertainty over defender Hassan Kadesh is causing concern ahead of Saturday’s Saudi Pro League clasico against Al-Hilal.

Al-Ittihad travel to Riyadh to face their traditional rivals at Kingdom Arena in one of the headline fixtures of matchweek eight. The match comes with the two sides separated by just one point at the top of the table.

Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiya reported that Ilenikhena has recovered from the injury he suffered while representing Nigeria during the most recent international break. The forward took part in Al-Ittihad’s team training on Tuesday, confirming that he is fit and available to play against Al-Hilal.

However, Kadesh’s situation remains unresolved. The Saudi Arabia international is currently recovering from an injury sustained while playing for his country at the Gulf Cup 27.

The defender missed Saudi Arabia’s matches through to the final, including Tuesday’s 2-0 victory over United Arab Emirates. Al-Ittihad have yet to establish whether Kadesh will recover in time to feature in the clasico.

Al-Ittihad will be looking to claim victory and move to the top of the Saudi Pro League standings. They currently sit second on 17 points, one point behind leaders Al-Hilal.

The Jeddah club are also the only side yet to lose in the competition this season. Al-Hilal, meanwhile, have suffered one defeat, going down 2-0 to Neom.