World Cup Focus: Hector Cuper won’t makes changes even if Salah is 100% fit

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Friday Jun 15, 2018. 10:00

Egypt coach Hector Cuper says his star attacker Mohamed Salah has recovered from his shoulder injury, but he will not change his plans.

The Pharaohs are set to open their Group A, 2018 FIFA World Cup tournament against Uruguay on Friday afternoon and they will hope to stun the South Americans.

Salah was injured against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League final a month ago.

Although the Liverpool forward could be fit for the clash, coach Cuper said he won’t make changes in his squad to accommodate the Liverpool player.

“Salah has recovered, let’s see how things go in today’s training session but he is almosts 100% ready for the tie,” said Cuper.

“I thank all the players who brought us here to Russia, we are ready and we are in a prestigious tournament.

"We won’t field Salah unless he is fully fit, he is a great person and everyone knows his ability.

“Why wouldn’t he win the World Cup’s golden boot, he has what it takes to do it.

“I spent three years and three months along with the players and the Egyptian FA, we made changes according to our opponents.

“Time is short so I won’t make changes, we have to be realistic. We are in a huge event and changing our playing style now won’t be easy.”

The encounter ill be staged at Ekaterinburg Arena at 14:00 (CAT) on Friday.