Egypt optimistic Salah will be fit to face Australia

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Egypt remain optimistic the hamstring strain Mohamed Salah picked up against Iran will not prevent him from facing Australia in Friday's last-32 tie at the Fifa World Cup.Salah suffered the injury in the group game that secured passage to the knockout stage for the Pharaohs, who are making their fourth appearance at a World Cup.The North Africans reached the knockout phase for the first time after going unbeaten against Belgium, New Zealand and Iran to finish second in Group G.However, celebrations following the 1-1 draw against Iran in Seattle were tempered when Salah was forced off in the 57th minute.Scans confirmed the 34-year-old sustained a hamstring strain, but there is growing optimism within the Egyptian camp that the captain could feature against the Socceroos in Dallas (18:00 GMT), having returned to training on Tuesday.The forward is undertaking an intensive rehabilitation programme and individual recovery sessions, with head coach Hossam Hassan downplaying concerns.Salah has so far been key for the Pharaohs in front of goal, scoring in the 3-1 win over New Zealand and providing two assists at the finals.If the former Liverpool forward is unavailable, much of Egypt's attacking responsibility is expected to fall on Omar Marmoush.The Manchester City forward was left out of the starting line-up against Iran before being introduced as a second-half substitute. Sources close to the team say he was disappointed not to start and is determined to reclaim his place against Australia.Some observers believe the 27-year-old has yet to make the expected impact at this tournament and Friday's knockout tie offers the perfect opportunity to change that narrative.