Celtic star at centre of injury riddle as he starts for country despite absence claim

Celtic winger Hassiem Hassan is at the centre of an injury riddle after appearing for Egypt on Friday despite his manager claiming he was absent from the squad.

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan stated that the 24-year-old would miss the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and South Sudan due to undergoing “intensive treatment” on an unspecified issue.

“Haissem Hassan is receiving intensive treatment just now," he said. "But I am not worried about his absence because we have a lot of excellent players to replace him.

Celtic winger Haissem Hassan played for Egypt against Angola on Friday night amid claims he was receiving treatment for an injury. | Getty Images

“Haissem is a vital technical asset for our long-term vision, but his recent injury made it impossible for him to join us for this camp. We prioritise player health and full physical recovery above all else and we expect him back once he is 100 per cent fit.”

However, in a surprising twist, the £9million winger started against Angola on Friday night, playing 60 minutes before being replaced as Egypt were held to a goalless draw in Cairo.

Hassan has made nine appearances for Celtic since joining from Real Oviedo in the summer, although he only featured as a 71st minute substitute in Sunday’s 1-0 home defeat by Rangers.

His rapid recovery will provide a boost for Celtic after left-back Kieran Tierney, who went off against Gers on Sunday, withdrew from the Scotland squad earlier this week.

The Hoops, who were already without influential pair Jota and Alistair Johnston, return to action with a William Hill Premiership trip to Motherwell on October 11 before a formidable trip to Benfica in the Europa League and then a rematch of Celtic Park with last season’s runners-up Hearts.

Egypt will play their next qualifying match against South Sudan on Tuesday.