Oliver Glasner has confirmed that Crystal Palace will be without the services of Cheick Doucoure for this weekend’s clash with Manchester United.
Doucoure made his first start since November during the 2-2 draw at Leicester last weekend, after sustaining an Achilles injury that curtailed his 2023/24 campaign. However, the midfielder’s return lasted just 45 minutes before he was withdrawn through injury at half-time.
Glasner has confirmed Doucoure is expected to be out for several weeks with a toe issue, in a big blow to the Eagles. The Mali international has been hampered by injuries since winning Crystal Palace’s Player of the Season award in 2022/23.
He said at his pre-match press conference: “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’s a little bit of a bad situation for him, but he will be back in a few weeks.
“He had a lot pain during the [Leicester] game and after the game, and now we, and him as well, are pleased that it’s not so serious because it was so painful that there was a worry it was a serious injury.
“It’s not. It’s several weeks. He was out for eight months, so several weeks is a short period. He’s already working for his comeback.”
Chalobah unavailable for Manchester United clash
Glasner also confirmed that Trevoh Chalobah is not available for selection, as the on-loan Chelsea defender continues to step up his recovery.
“[Trevoh Chalobah] is progressing, but he’s not available tomorrow. We expect him back with the team next week.
“The same with [Matheus] Franca. His recovery has gone quicker than expected. He did training yesterday and today with the team. It’s still a little bit too early. He will train next week, but he’s coming back.
“Just [missing] are Chadi Riad and, unfortunately, Cheick Doucoure.”
