Chadi Riad resumes training after long injury layoff

Crystal Palace defender Chadi Riad has returned to team training after being sidelined for over three months due to a knee injury.

The 20-year-old Moroccan, who signed with the Premier League club during the summer transfer window, sustained the injury during a match against Norwich at the end of August.

His return was confirmed by manager Oliver Glasner during a pre-match press conference ahead of their Premier League clash with Newcastle.

“He came back [this week] and performed really well; he enjoyed himself,” Glasner said. “But he was out for 14 weeks.

Now he needs to train, and that’s a bit problematic because next week there’s no training. With three games to go, most of the time will be recovery.”

Riad, who had been a promising presence before his injury, is unlikely to feature in the immediate upcoming fixtures.

Glasner emphasized the importance of allowing the young defender time to regain fitness and match sharpness.

Riad’s injury came at an unfortunate time, interrupting his adaptation to English football and the rigors of the Premier League.

As one of Morocco’s rising talents, his recovery and reintegration into the squad will be closely watched by both club and national team supporters.

While his return to training marks a significant step forward, Riad’s focus will now shift to regaining form and earning his place in the starting lineup.

For Crystal Palace, his comeback adds depth to their defensive options as the team navigates a busy and challenging fixture schedule.