A Significant Advantage for Palace: Morrison Praises Mateta's Comeback
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Synopsis
Crystal Palace's manager Oliver Glasner has made a notable change to his squad for the FA Cup match against Fulham, welcoming back striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has been called one of the best forwards in English football by former player Clinton Morrison. Mateta's return is anticipated to provide a significant lift to the team.
Key Takeaways
- Jean-Philippe Mateta returns from injury.
- His comeback is viewed as a major advantage for the team.
- Coach Oliver Glasner confirmed his fitness and protection gear.
- Former player Clinton Morrison praises Mateta's skills.
- Ben Chilwell highlights Mateta's role in team dynamics.
London, March 29 (NationPress) Crystal Palace's manager, Oliver Glasner, has implemented one adjustment to his lineup ahead of Saturday's FA Cup encounter against Fulham, with Jean-Philippe Mateta making his return. Former Palace forward Clinton Morrison praised the French striker as one of the top forwards in English football, asserting that Mateta's comeback will significantly benefit the team.
“Everyone was aware that [Oliver Glasner] would make the necessary changes, and he has indeed made them. They previously faced Fulham and achieved an excellent outcome, so they will approach this match with a lot of confidence. The presence of Mateta is a substantial advantage as he is regarded as one of the finest strikers in the Premier League,” Morrison stated to BBC Sport.
Mateta had to sit out Palace's last competitive match three weeks ago, which ended in a 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town, due to a facial injury requiring 25 stitches in his left ear, sustained during the prior FA Cup match against Millwall.
However, the in-form French forward is set to start today, sporting protective headgear, with Eddie Nketiah available on the bench.
Head coach Glasner had confirmed Mateta's return for the match, utilizing protective gear, during the pre-match press conference on Friday. "If I thought it was a concern, I wouldn’t have him play," Glasner remarked. "The medical team did an exceptional job ensuring the right protection was in place. We tested several options, and the Premier League approved everything.
Fullback Ben Chilwell also emphasized Mateta's significance to the team, describing him as the glue that holds the Eagles' dressing room together. "Before joining Palace, I watched him on television. We know how skilled he is, and his goal-scoring ability is remarkable.
"Moreover, I’ve been impressed by his presence in the training facility. He truly is the glue of our team, being the loudest in the locker room and around the club. You definitely need a few individuals like that,” Chilwell told the club's website.
