The Football Faithful
·10 January 2026
Crystal Palace XI vs Macclesfield – Predicted lineup and team news

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Yahoo sportsThe Football Faithful
·10 January 2026

Crystal Palace travel to non-league Macclesfield FC this afternoon while they begin the defence of their FA Cup trophy.
Oliver Glasner’s side has navigated a challenging winter period, currently enduring an eight-match winless streak in all competitions. Despite the massive gulf in league standings, the Eagles must navigate a significant injury crisis as they face a Macclesfield team that has won five consecutive games to reach the third round. For Palace, this fixture is as much about avoiding a historic upset as it is about finding a much-needed victory to spark their season.
The holders are managing a “raft of injuries” to senior players, including Daniel Muñoz, Cheick Doucouré, Chadi Riad, and Eddie Nketiah. Furthermore, Ismaïla Sarr is away representing Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations. Consequently, Glasner will rely on the depth of his squad and several academy prospects for the trip to Moss Rose.
Youngsters Jaydee Canvot, George King, and Dean Benamar are all in contention to feature in a heavily rotated starting XI. Walter Benitez is expected to start in goal, while Chris Richards will provide senior experience in a back three. Captain Marc Guéhi may be rested, allowing more minutes for versatile defensive options like Kaden Rodney. In attack, Uche is set to lead the line as Palace aim to become the 13th holder in 14 years to progress from this stage.
Crystal Palace predicted XI: Benitez; Canvot, Richards, King; Sosa, Devenny, Rodney, Benamar; Casey, Drakes-Thomas; Uche
The FA Cup third-round fixture takes place on Saturday, 10 January 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 12:15 GMT.
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on TNT Sports 1 and discovery+, with coverage starting at 11:30 GMT ahead of the 12:15 GMT kick-off.









































