The Egyptian international has been one of manager Hossam Hassan's indispensable players but was sidelined for long times recently.

However, Salah has been given extra attention in the training prior to Ismaili clash.

Reports suggest he would team up with Hassan Mostafa and Hani Saied as three holding midfielders.

"Ismaili have the best midfield in the league," Hassan told reporters. "We need to stop them in order to win."

A victory for league-leaders Zamalek could mean challengers Ismaili's hopes in leapfrogging them will be shattered.

Zamalek, now with 39 points, are leading Ismaili by five points.

Tactical Switch

If Salah was thrown into the fray, it means Hassan will make his usual tactical switch to a 4-3-2-1 formation during big games.

Usually, Zamalek play with just two holding midfielders and three attacking-minded midfielders behind a lone striker.

But a three-man defensive line the in the midfield would mean the wingers Shikabala and probably Hussein Yasser will bear all the offensive responsibilities alongside forward Ahmed Gaafar.

Mostafa could be liberated during counter attacks to assist Gaafar from the heart of the pitch.

Ismaili manager Emad Soliman suffers defensive problems as his starting center-back Shadi Mohamed is suspended after receiving a red card against Gouna last game.

Shadi's dismissal was due to a fight with teammate and goalkeeper Mohamed Sobhi, who also misses Zamalek's game through injury.

Acclaimed international midfielder Hosni Abd-Rabou is unfit to play despite recovering from a long-term injury.