After returning from their training in Spain’s warm climate, all eyes are now on Crystal Palace’s Premier League matchup against Nottingham Forest this coming Saturday. In their final league encounter, the Eagles reluctantly gave up the game’s final kick to draw with Luton.
With those two lost points, they are in a precarious situation. Since Oliver Glasner took over as manager, they have only triumphed once, against a struggling Burnley team. The Eagles were fortunate not to win all three points against Luton after making a strong showing against the Spurs prior to their defeat.
They have also been without a number of the most important players, Eberechi Eze has been in and out of the team while Michael Olise is only trying to be ready for the game against Forest this weekend.
Olise has not played since being forced off against Brighton earlier in the year. Then there is the engine of the team, Cheick Doucoure who will be lucky to play again this season due to a calf injury. The absence of the former Lens midfielder has had a significant impact on the team.
Other key players have also been on the treatment table including Marc Guehi who missed the last three games and England duty due to a knee injury. He’s had to take surgery but is making progress lately at Copers Cope Rd. Goalkeeper Sam Johnstone has picked up an injury while with England.
Palace and Forest are separated by eight points. Should the Eagles be able to regain players in time, they will reach the magical 40 points needed to guarantee their Premier League survival.
In light of that, the following is a list of injured Eagles players along with their anticipated return date:
1. Cheick Doucoure
Snapped his Achilles tendon. Expected to return in June
2. Rob Holding
He has a foot injury. Expected date: 04/05/2024
3. Jesurun Rak-Sakyi
He has a thigh problem. Expected back at the end of this month. (March)
4. Jeffrey Schlupp
He has a thigh injury and expected back on 30/03/2024
5. Michael Olise
Another player who has been struggling with a thigh problem. Expected back this weekend.
6. Marc Guehi
Knee injury and 04/05/2024
7. Matheus Franca
Pelvic injury. Expected back 30/03/2024
8. Sam Johnstone
He’s been forced to leave the England camp after a reported shoulder injury.
