Egypt boss Hector Cuper is upbeat Liverpool star Mohammed Salah will be fit in time for the start of the World Cup in Russia.

Salah injured his shoulder in the UEFA Champions League final against Real Madrid, as he landed awkwardly after a tussle with Sergio Ramos.

The 25-year-old was substituted immediately, amid fears he would miss out on the World Cup entirely.

But Cuper, speaking after Egypt's 0-0 friendly draw with Colombia on Friday, insists medical reports look positive and Salah is edging closer to a return.

"We are optimistic, and every medical report says he will make it," he said.

"But we still have to prepare for any situation that could happen before we start.

"Salah is not easy to replace, no doubt about that. He is a weapon for us, especially on the counter-attack, making use of his speed and his quality."

Egypt will face Uruguay on June 15 before taking on hosts Russia on June 18.

By Daraja Mutari/Ghanaguardian.com