Crystal Palace set for £47m injury boost v Newcastle United - but key trio ruled out

Crystal Palace’s injury crisis could be eased this weekend with the return of two key midfielders for the visit to Newcastle United.

The Premier League returns following the two-week international break. Newcastle and Palace have endured a similar start to the 2023-24 campaign with just one point separating the two teams in the table.

Both have had their fair share of injury problems too. Prior to the break, United were without Sven Botman, Joelinton and Joe Willock, while Alexander Isak was forced to withdraw from the Sweden squad because of a groin issue. Harvey Barnes is a long-term absence.

Eddie Howe hopes to welcome back Botman, Joelinton and Isak versus against Palace. And Roy Hodgson is also reportedly set for a double boost with the return of midfield pair Jefferson Lerma and Cheick Doucoure.

Doucoure missed The Eagles’ 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest last time out due to a small injury. Meanwhile, a hamstring injury for Lerma, who Howe signed for Bournemouth, means he hasn’t featured since September.

According to The Athletic, there is “optimism” that those players can play a part at St James’ Park.

Matheus Franca, 19, could be named in the matchday squad for the first time since joining Brazilian club Flamengo for £26m.

Hodgson, however, remains light of attacking options with the likes of Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze and Jeffrey Schlupp ruled out.