Palace s Mateta suffers serious head injury chairman slams reckless challenge

LONDON – Jean-Philippe Mateta said he is doing well and hopes to be back soon after being hospitalised by a horrific challenge from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts.

Roberts was sent off just eight minutes into the FA Cup fifth-round tie on March 1, which Palace won 3-1, after catching Mateta’s head with his boot as he raced out to clear the ball.

Referee Michael Oliver issued a red card after a video assistant referee (VAR) review.

Mateta received lengthy treatment, including being given oxygen, on the pitch before he was stretchered off and taken to hospital.

“Thank you for all your kind messages. I’m doing well. I hope to be back very soon. And stronger than ever. Well done guys for a great job today,” Mateta posted on Instagram.

Palace said later on March 1 that Mateta had been discharged from hospital.

“He received specialist treatment and 25 stitches to a severe laceration to his left ear. All scans were clear and JP is feeling well,” the club said.

“He will now rest and recuperate over the following days where his progress will be monitored by our club doctor.”

Palace manager Oliver Glasner said the challenge could have ended the Frenchman’s career.

“Just imagine if he hits his face straight, with his power, with the studs, it is the end of JP’s career,” said Glasner.

“I’m pretty sure he didn’t want to injure JP in this situation, but I also think that you have to decide when you make such an impact, you just can’t do it in this way.”

Mateta had scored eight goals in his previous nine games and has 15 in total for Palace this season.

The 27-year-old also netted five times as France took silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Palace chairman Steve Parish described Roberts’