Ahli defender Ahmed Al-Sayed has been ruled out of Thursday's Cairo derby clash against Zamalek due to an injury, the Egyptian champions said on Wednesday. "Al-Sayed strained a groin muscle in yesterday's training session," Ahli said on their official website. "The player tried to carry on but he couldn't. He will consequently miss the game against Zamalek." Al-Sayed has been a regular member of Ahli's defense since interim coach Abdul-Aziz Abdul-Shafi 'Zizo' took over in November following the resignation of Hossam Al-Badri. He usually partners combative defender Wael Gomaa in the heart of a three-man defense that also features a traditional sweeper. However, Al-Sayed has been criticized lately after some sluggish displays cost Ahli in draws against struggling outfits Smouha and Arab Contractors. "I was hoping to play in such an important match but I'm not lucky," the 30-year-old said. "But I wish my teammates the best of luck to win tomorrow and please our fans." Ahli will also have to do without striker Mohamed Fadl, who was not included in the team's 19-man squad after suffering a hamstring injury. The only other recognized strikers at Zizo's disposal are rarely-used duo Mohamed Talaat and Osama Hosni. Ahli will be looking to bridge the gap with arch-rivals Zamalek, who have a six-point advantage on the top of the table, when they lock horns at Cairo Stadium.
