Jean-Philippe Mateta back in Crystal Palace squad for Larnaca but not fit to start | OneFootball

Jean-Philippe Mateta will return to Crystal Palace’s squad for Thursday’s UEFA Conference League last-16 tie against AEK Larnaca after a knee issue, but Oliver Glasner says he will not start and is likely to be on the bench.

According to NY Times, the Frenchman rejoined training on Monday after five or six weeks off the pitch, having been sidelined since the 3-1 loss to Chelsea on January 25. The problem has persisted since November.

A January move to AC Milan collapsed in part because of the injury. Some supporters were unhappy after he turned down a new contract and considered a move, although Glasner said there was no formal transfer request. Following specialist consultations, club and player opted for rest rather than surgery.

Glasner said Mateta has already shown in training that he can create chances, but match fitness will need time. He added that January business strengthened Palace’s attack, giving him more options.

Mateta has scored once in his past 12 appearances in all competitions and is the club’s second highest scorer with eight, all in the Premier League. He also spurned two good chances in the 1-0 loss to Larnaca in the initial league phase.

Daniel Munoz will miss Larnaca with a shoulder injury but could return against Leeds United on Sunday. Maxence Lacroix is available, Jeff Lerma is fine, and Glasner is considering a winger at wing-back.

Source: NY Times