Al Hilal faces injury concerns

Back at the club after a successful loan spell with Al Ain, the 29-year-old former Saudi Arabia international has scored three goals already this season but is struggling with an ankle injury.

He is joined in the treatment room by Khalid Al Kaabi and, with Sultan Al Beshi suspended, Kombouare has not got strength to pick from.

The former Paris Saint-Germain coach wants his players to establish an advantage ahead of the return fixture in Riyadh, though, saying: "It is an important match as it is the first leg of a knockout game.

"Over these two matches we will have to play very well to keep our chances alive of continuing in the competition."

Speaking on the AFC's official website, he added: "We are ready, even to play a very strong team, even though we have injuries.

"We also have one player who is suspended. But we have players who can take his place."

Wesley and Yoo Byung-soo are in line to replace Al Qahtani.