The Jeddah-based side had to do without Meteb during their vital 2-1 victory over Hilal that gave them an eighth league title in history.

The Egypt striker missed the game after tearing cruciate ligament in his knee, the injury that will sideline him for between four and six months.

Aboucherouane, who scored Ittihad's second goal, revealed an undershirt with 'Meteb, wish you speedy recovery' phrase written on it.

"I wish Meteb had been celebrating with us tonight," the former Raja Casablanca man told Abu Dhabi TV after the game.

"I'm very sad that he sustained this knee injury. I dedicate our league triumph to him."

Meteb, who spent a one-year loan with Ittihad after joining from Egyptian champions Ahli last summer, played an instrumental role in helping his side win the trophy they last lifted in 2007.

The 26-year-old scored 10 league goals in a successful Saudi adventure.