Crystal Palace Midfielder Cheick Doucoure Faces Extended Injury Layoff
Crystal Palace midfielder Cheick Doucoure is set for an extended period on the sidelines after suffering a toe injury during the recent 2-2 draw with Leicester. Manager Oliver Glasner confirmed that the Mali international will be out of action for several weeks as he recovers from the setback.
Doucoure, 24, had just made his first Premier League start under Glasner after returning from a lengthy layoff following a serious Achilles injury he sustained against Luton last November. Unfortunately, his comeback was short-lived as he was forced off at half-time and replaced by Will Hughes.
Glasner provided an update on Doucoure’s injury, stating, “He has some [injury] to do with the tendon on the toe – we will miss him for several weeks. The tendon has to heal, so it will take a little bit. It’s a bad situation for him, but he will be back in a few weeks.”
The manager expressed relief that the injury was not as serious as initially feared, adding, “He was sad, but he had a lot of pain during the [Leicester] game and after the game. We are pleased that it’s not so serious because it was so painful that we worried it was a serious injury.”
Despite the setback, Glasner remains optimistic about Doucoure’s recovery, noting, “He was out for eight months, so several weeks is a short period.” The midfielder will now focus on his rehabilitation to regain full fitness and return to action as soon as possible.
Matheus Franca’s Recovery Progress
In addition to Doucoure’s injury, Crystal Palace have also been without the services of Brazilian youngster Matheus Franca, who suffered a fractured rib during pre-season training. However, there is positive news on Franca’s recovery, as Glasner revealed that the 20-year-old has been making faster progress than expected.
Glasner stated, “He has recovered quicker than expected. He trained with the team on Wednesday and today. It’s still a little bit too early [for him to play]. He will train next week – he’s coming back.”
The return of Franca will provide a welcome boost to the Palace squad, adding depth and competition in midfield as they navigate a challenging period of fixtures in the Premier League.
Trevoh Chalobah’s Absence and Expected Return
Meanwhile, deadline day signing Trevoh Chalobah continues to be sidelined with an abdominal injury that he sustained in his first training session with the club. Despite the setback, Glasner remains hopeful that the Chelsea loanee will be available for selection in the upcoming clash against Everton.
The Eagles boss emphasized the importance of Chalobah’s recovery, stating, “He will still be missing with an abdominal injury he picked up in his first training session. However, we hope he will be back for next Saturday’s clash at Everton.”
Chalobah’s potential return will provide Glasner with additional options in midfield and defense, as the team looks to build momentum and secure positive results in the Premier League.
In conclusion, Crystal Palace will need to navigate a challenging period without the services of key midfielders due to injuries. However, with players like Matheus Franca making progress in their recovery and the hope of Trevoh Chalobah returning soon, the team remains confident in their ability to compete and overcome adversity in the upcoming fixtures.