Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has provided an encouraging update on striker Jean-Philippe Mateta’s recovery following a severe head injury sustained during an FA Cup match against Millwall.
Mateta, who has DR Congolese heritage, required 25 stitches after a collision with Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts.
The incident occurred early in the match when Roberts’ high boot made contact with Mateta’s head, leading to a straight red card for the goalkeeper.
Mateta received immediate medical attention on the field before being transported to the hospital.
Crystal Palace later confirmed that, despite the severity of the laceration to his left ear, there were no fractures or signs of concussion.
Addressing the media, Glasner expressed optimism about Mateta’s recovery timeline.
“Mateta is doing well. He is at home and recovering well.
“He had no fractures or concussion and healing from the huge wound is going as we expected.
“He will go to Marbella with us next week and he will be just training individually. If everything goes how we wish, he will be available against Fulham (in the FA Cup quarterfinal).
“We lose JP for this game, we can’t play him tomorrow, but it’s not too bad.”
