But with Lookman, Victor Boniface, Kelechi Iheanacho and Samuel Chukwueze to
choose from, coach and former star Finidi George is not short of talent as he
prepares for his competitive debut.
"Mohamed is one of the best footballers in the world and there is no rift
between us," said coach Hossam Hassan, who replaced Portuguese Rui Vitoria
after a last-16 exit in the Ivory Coast.
Coach Walid Regragui also called up Brahim Diaz, an attacking midfielder at
European titans Real Madrid for the clash with Zambia, who are on the back
foot after a surprise away loss to Niger.
Stalwarts like goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly and
forward Sadio Mane -- all based in Saudi Arabia -- remain as the Teranga
Lions seek redemption in World Cup qualifying.
But there are no places in the Cup of Nations title-holders squad for
defenders Serge Aurier and Eric Bailly due to a lack of club game time, and
winger Wilfried Zaha remains out of favour.