Crystal Palace has suffered an injury setback ahead of their Premier League match against Newcastle due to ‘brand new’ information.
Palace defeats Fiorentina in an impressive European performance.
Palace came close to reaching the semi-final of their first European campaign on Thursday night, when Jean-Philippe Mateta’s penalty, a Tyrick Mitchell goal, and a late Ismaila Sarr header helped them defeat Fiorentina 3-0 at Selhurst Park.
The excellent outcome places one Eagles foot strong in the Conference League’s final four.
Mateta, who was making his first start since January after suffering a knee injury and a turbulent period in which he openly requested a move to AC Milan, ended a goal drought with his spot-kick and received a warm reception from fans when he was replaced late in the game.
Defender Chris Richards confirmed the intention in the locker room after the game, stating that the club wants to reach the final, with the confidence gained from last season’s FA Cup and Community Shield victories spilling over into a squad that now believes silverware is a legitimate goal.
Fiorentina will need to accomplish something remarkable in the second leg in Florence next week to overcome the deficit.
Palace plays Newcastle in the Premier League on Sunday, after which attention may completely shift to Tuscany.
With that double-header in mind, Oliver Glasner has had to accept that one player who was working toward a return will play no more this season.
Crystal Palace dealt Newcastle a big setback by signing Eddie Nketiah.
Eddie Nketiah has been out since Palace’s match against Tottenham in late December.
Striker appeared to be getting closer to his comeback, as he was on the practice pitch as recently as Wednesday, two minutes before the session ended, before suffering another hamstring issue and being forced to leave.
The most recent setback has dashed any real possibility of him playing again this season.
Following the Fiorentina game, Glasner stated that Nketiah would not return until pre-season.
“Yes, Eddie, unfortunately, was the conclusion of the season, so he will not return until the new season begins,” Glasner explained.
“I didn’t talk to him because he had a scan yesterday evening, and I believe the doctor called me at night and in the evening when I was watching the Champions League games.
“I (just) obtained this information, so it’s brand new and, of course, today I was preparing the team, but tomorrow I will talk with him and we will determine what is best. “
The news is disappointing, but it comes in a week when Palace has many reasons to be hopeful.
A three-goal advantage over Fiorentina, a team that has grown in confidence throughout their European adventure, and a home record that Glasner describes as something unique all indicate to a club that is building on its roots rather than running out of steam.
Jørgen Strand Larsen returns from suspension for Sunday’s trip to Newcastle, providing the attack with new alternatives as the season approaches its final stretch.
