Official line-up of the Turkish side against Copps in the Conference League

Days of controversy over player safety on the artificial surface have not changed Trabzonspor's plans. The Turkish side have named their attacking weapon for the trip to Finland's KuPS, with the Egyptian star front and centre in a crucial UEFA Europa Conference League fixture.

The official line-up: Salah at the heart of the attack

Trabzonspor's coaching staff have confirmed the starting XI to face KuPS, and the Egyptian star is in it, despite every warning about the dangers of playing on artificial turf.

Trabzonspor line up as follows:

Goalkeeper: Onana.

Defence: Mendy - Samet - Pina - Genc.

Midfield: Melih Kabasakal - Bouchouari - Ozan Tufan.

Attack: Salah - Aral Simsir - Onuachu.

The artificial turf debate

Salah's involvement had become a talking point in the build-up for one simple reason. The stadium is covered entirely in artificial turf.

That same surface already cost Egypt their talisman once, with Salah sitting out the clash with South Sudan because of the heightened risk of muscle injuries and joint strain.

Plenty expected a rest and a delayed return. Instead, with so much riding on the Conference League campaign, the coach has gambled on his strongest card from the first whistle, insisting his side have travelled to Finland to take all three points whatever the conditions throw at them.