Hassan is yet to score in 17 appearances for Celtic, managing two assists. Overall, he is without a goal in over 70 appearances including his spell with Real Oviedo and international duty,

Hassan is nevertheless a regular contributor for the Egyptian national team, who dismissed manager Hossem Hassan (no relation) after the last break. If the words of new boss Ali Maher are anything to go by, the door remains open for the 24-year-old.

Ali Maher on Egypt: ‘The national team’s door is open’

Maher said speaking at his first press conference since arriving as boss: “I want the players to work hard and persevere. I stress that the national team’s door is open to all players. Joining the national team is the best honour among Egyptian football players.

“I have full confidence in the players and hope that they will form a distinguished generation capable of fulfilling the aspirations of Egyptian fans. I want them to give their utmost effort in the coming period.”

Hassan impressed for his country against Argentina at this summer’s World Cup, generating worldwide reactions with his performance. It’s not always the best-informed move to sign a player off the back of one performance, but Celtic’s interest in Hassan evidently pre-dated the Argentina match.

Discussing Hassan after the game at the weekend, O’Neill said: “We’re trying to do, as much as possible, we’re trying to do a bit of manoeuvring at this minute. I just think it’ll be great for places. If there’s proper competition for places, it can only make us better.”

Egypt will contest a double-header with Malawi in this international break. They sit top of the Africa Cup of Nations Qualifying Group B which also includes Angola and South Sudan.