Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has revealed that Eddie Nketiah will miss his side’s encounter with Fiorentina on Thursday (March 9th). The English striker was set to return to action after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Nketiah last appeared for the Eagles in late December before suffering a thigh injury. He hasn’t featured for the club since but was set to be available after the international break.
Palace face Fiorentina in the first leg of their Europa Conference League quarter-final tomorrow night. But Nketiah won’t be available, which comes as a blow for Glasner.
No Nketiah
Glasner is already without Jorgen Strand Larsen due to suspension which means Jean-Philippe Mateta is likely to lead the line. He gave an update on Nketiah in his pre-match press conference:
“It looked like everyone was available for tomorrow’s game, but Eddie Nketiah unfortunately injured his hamstring again two minutes before the end of training.”
Nketiah has endured an injury-ridden spell at Selhurst Park since arriving from Arsenal in August 2024. He’s made 56 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing four assists.
Glasner looks certain to start Mateta up top for the clash with Fiorentina. The French forward has failed to recapture last season’s form but could relish the chance to prove he’s still committed to the cause.
Mateta pushed to leave the club in January but failed a medical ahead of a proposed £30m move to AC Milan. He returned from a knee injury in the Conference League play-offs against Mostar, but didn’t receive the most welcome reception.
More Injury Woes For Eddie
Nketiah’s season has been full of injury setbacks which have been a problematic for the player and his team. He’s missed 29 games across competitions and that will be 30 after tomorrow night.
The 26-year-old hasn’t quite lived up to expectations since arriving from the Emirates in a £30m deal. He has spent most of it playing backup to Mateta and will likely face a similar situation once available.
There is some uncertainty over the English frontman’s future despite having over three years on his contract. Larsen is expected to lead the line moving forward and if his injury troubles continue it could put him at risk of being sold.
