The Egyptian FA are yet to make a decision on the late release of Liverpool star Mohamed Salah for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
The club have requested to delay Salah's departure in order for him to miss just two Premier League games and ensure he's available for crucial games against Leicester City and Chelsea.
They're also hopeful of securing similar agreements with Senegal and Guinea's associations for the late release of Sadio Mane and Naby Keita.
Aston Villa have already reached an agreement with the Zimbabwean FA for the late release of midfielder Marvelous Nakamba, while Liverpool continue to sweat over their stars.
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FIFA regulations state players must arrive the Monday morning a week prior to the tournament starting - which means they're set to leave after the Reds' boxing day clash against Leeds United.
Osama Ismail, a spokesperson for the Egypt FA, says a decision is yet to be made on Salah.
“We already received the request. It is still under consideration, and no answer has been given yet,” he told Ahram Online.
Egypt national team director Wael Gomaa also told Ahram Online at the weekend that their coach Carlos Queiroz has not yet made a decision regarding Liverpool’s request.
Manager Jurgen Klopp admitted earlier this month that he's 'hopeful' to have his star players available beyond Boxing Day.
“It’s not decided yet," he said.
"I am an optimistic person, so I hope so, but it’s not written in stone and not completely in our hands."
Should agreements be reached, the trio would only miss the visit of Brentford and an away trip to Crystal Palace, as well as a third round FA Cup tie against Shrewsbury Town.
