Jean-Philippe Mateta is in contention to make his Crystal Palace return in Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final tie against Fulham.
The French striker would wear a specialised protective mask at Craven Cottage if he makes his first appearance since the serious ear injury he suffered during the previous round of the competition - the 3-1 win over Millwall on March 1.
Mateta required 25 stitches after receiving a reckless high challenge from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts, who was later handed an extended six-match ban.
The Palace forward was taken to hospital and received treatment before being discharged later the same day. He then spent time doing individual work away from his team-mates during the Eagles’ week-long training camp in Marbella a fortnight ago.
Palace medical staff soon had the target of Saturday’s meeting with Fulham as the occasion for Mateta’s possible return to action, and he is in contention to feature if called upon, having now had his bandages removed.
Speaking with Sky Sports last week, the 27-year-old said: “Hopefully, I can play [against Fulham]. Hopefully, you never know. Hopefully, they will see me.
“I’m in the ground every day. The doctor is the person, he will decide. I will wear a mask, I think so.”
