Al Hilal strengthen squad for Al Ahli clash as Ollie Watkins awaits first appearance

Al Hilal have received a double boost ahead of Tuesday’s postponed Roshn Saudi League meeting with Al Ahli, with Simon Boabri and Hassan Al-Tambakti fit to return and new signing Ollie Watkins in contention to make his debut.

The match, which was originally scheduled as part of the competition’s third round, is expected to be one of the most demanding fixtures of the season for Simone Inzaghi’s side. Al Hilal are hoping the return of key players, combined with the arrival of Watkins, will give them greater strength in their pursuit of three points.

According to Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiyah, Boabri and Al-Tambakti are now available for selection after recovering from their respective absences. Their readiness gives Inzaghi more options across the team as he prepares for the eagerly anticipated clash with Al Ahli.

Al-Tambakti’s return is particularly significant for Al Hilal. The Saudi international defender has been missing in recent weeks, and his availability could provide greater stability and resilience in the centre of the defence.

Boabri’s fitness also represents an important addition for the Italian manager before one of Al Hilal’s biggest tests of the campaign. The two players’ returns mean Inzaghi can consider a wider range of choices as he finalises his approach to the match.

The latest developments also come amid reports that Watkins could be included in the Al Hilal team for the first time. The club officially announced the signing of the England international from Aston Villa on a three-year contract, making him one of the main attacking players they will rely on during the next stage of the season.

Watkins’ possible involvement has generated particular interest because Al Ahli could provide the forward with his first appearance in an Al Hilal shirt. Rather than beginning his time in Saudi Arabia in a less demanding fixture, the striker may be introduced in a major meeting against one of the club’s strongest opponents.

The potential debut would also give Al Hilal supporters their first opportunity to see their new attacking signing in competitive action. Watkins is expected to add another option to Inzaghi’s forward line as the club seek to make full use of the squad available to them.

Al Hilal view the Al Ahli classic as an important opportunity to strengthen their position in the Roshn Saudi League. Inzaghi will be hoping that the return of Al-Tambakti and Boabri, together with the possibility of selecting Watkins, enables his team to produce a strong performance and secure all three points.

The match follows Al Hilal’s confirmed move for Watkins from Aston Villa. A related report also raised uncertainty over Karim Benzema’s position, while the focus for Tuesday’s fixture remains on whether Watkins will make his first appearance for the Saudi club.