Jean-Philippe Mateta’s knee injury, which halted his £30m move to AC Milan last month, is “not as bad as feared” and won’t require surgery, says Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner.
The 28-year-old France striker had been carrying the injury earlier this season, but several specialists have confirmed it’s not serious. This is good news for Mateta’s hopes of playing for France at the World Cup in June.
Glasner did not specify when Mateta will return to training but praised his commitment to Palace, saying fans can expect his best performances when fit.
Mateta has scored 56 goals in 186 appearances for the club, including eight in the Premier League this season, and will face competition from new signing Jorgen Strand Larsen.
Crystal Palace, currently 13th in the Premier League, host 19th-placed Burnley on Wednesday.
Crystal Palace, currently 13th in the Premier League, host 19th-placed Burnley on Wednesday.
