George Ilenikhena returns to boost Al-Ittihad ahead of Al-Hilal Saudi Pro League clasico

Al-Ittihad have received a major boost before Saturday’s Saudi Pro League clasico against Al-Hilal, with Nigeria international George Ilenikhena declared fit to play.

The two sides will meet in the eighth round of the Saudi Pro League, with Al-Ittihad looking to close the gap on the leaders.

Ilenikhena, 20, missed Al-Ittihad’s recent matches after suffering an injury while on international duty with Nigeria during the latest international break. The forward has since recovered and returned to full team training.

His fitness means he is now in contention to feature against Al-Hilal, although the final decision on whether he starts or comes off the bench will be made by the coaching staff.

Ilenikhena has scored four goals in the Saudi Pro League this season and has also provided two assists in the King’s Cup.

Al-Ittihad are second in the Saudi Pro League with 17 points, one point behind leaders Al-Hilal.