Crystal Palace dressing room’s reaction to Mateta horror injury shared | Football | Sport

Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi extended his hope for a swift recuperation to teammate Jean-Philippe Mateta, who suffered a harrowing injury following a high boot from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts during their FA Cup fifth-round clash. The incident saw Mateta needing oxygen before being hospitalised after getting hit in the head by Roberts’ airborne challenge.

The Millwall shot-stopper initially escaped on-field punishment, but referee Michael Oliver then brandished a red card following VAR intervention. Palace chairman Steve Parish weighed in on the incident, labelling it as one of the most appalling tackles he has seen across his years in the sport, and confirmed that Mateta was immediately taken for medical screening.

Mateta later reassured supporters via social media, stating: “Thank you all for your kind messages. I’m doing well. I hope to be back very soon. And stronger than ever. Well done guys for the great job today. I love you. JP.”

Guehi, who also praised Eddie Nketiah for stepping up in place of Mateta during the team’s 3-1 victory, conveyed his concerns to BBC post-match: “A little worrying actually. We wish him a speedy recovery. We hope he is doing well and can re-join the team as quickly as possible.”

Palace grabbed the first goal courtesy of Japhet Tanganga who diverted the ball into his own net. Eberechi Eze linked up with Will Hughes, who served a cross into the box, resulting in Tanganga’s inadvertent header past goalkeeper Ryan Jensen.

Defender Daniel Munoz quickly doubled the lead, capitalising on a chaotic goalmouth scramble to make it 2-0. Despite being down to ten men, Millwall clawed back a goal before the break with Wes Harding finding the net.

The home side extended their advantage when former Arsenal striker Nketiah hit the back of the net.

Guehi praised the impact sub, stating: “I expect that from him. He is a team player, never moaning or complaining. We are very proud of him, he is a top player.”

Nketiah himself reflected on the match, adding: “Sad for JP, hopefully he gets back soon. It was nice to get some minutes. Every player wants to play. We have a really good squad, a real togetherness. The fans are amazing here. One step closer.”

This article first appeared on The Mirror.