Injury Crisis and Boost Ahead of M23 Derby Clash
The highly anticipated M23 derby between Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace this Sunday is set against a backdrop of significant injury concerns for both sides. With the Premier League rivals separated by just two points in the table, the availability of key players could prove decisive in what promises to be a fiercely contested encounter on the South Coast.
Crystal Palace's Injury Woes and New Signings
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner faces considerable challenges heading into the derby, with his team enduring a difficult run of form compounded by a forgettable winter transfer window. The Eagles have been particularly hampered by injuries, most notably to star striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who will miss the match due to a knee injury that recently scuppered a proposed move to AC Milan.
However, there is some positive news for Palace supporters. Midfielder Adam Wharton is set to return to the squad, while new forward signings Jorgen Strand Larsen and Evann Guessand will be available for selection. Glasner has emphasised the need for a fresh start, telling reporters: "For us, it's pressing the reset button. With all the results, we were not really pleased. Daichi Kamada is back and trained the full week – he will be available for the Brighton game – and really, it feels like a new team, with three new players coming in, and now it's really to start."
The Palace manager acknowledged the challenging atmosphere surrounding the club but remained focused on improvement: "I told the players at the beginning of this week, because this group of players will now be together until the end of the season, it feels a little bit the mood around the club is not the best one, to be honest. So same situation, and now it's our job, the team's job, to make the best of it, and get the turnaround to finish the season as good as last year."
Brighton's Absences and Returning Players
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler also contends with several injury concerns ahead of the derby. The Seagulls will be without multiple first-team players, though they do welcome back one important midfielder.
Confirmed Brighton Absences:
- Stefanos Tzimas: Ruled out with an ACL rupture sustained in December, expected to miss much of the year.
- Adam Webster: Suffered a serious knee injury in July and is likely out for the remainder of the season.
- Solly March: Hoping to return by March, but Hurzeler confirmed it is "too early" for his involvement this weekend.
- Yasin Ayari: Out with a minor shoulder issue picked up against Everton, though the injury is not considered serious.
- Mats Wiefer: Will not feature but is "close" to returning and expected back next week.
In a boost for Brighton, midfielder Diego Gomez has been passed fit and will be available for selection. Hurzeler confirmed: "Diego Gomez will be back, he will be an option."
Complete Crystal Palace Injury List
Crystal Palace's injury situation is particularly extensive, with several key players sidelined for the derby clash.
Confirmed Palace Absences:
- Cheick Doucoure: Glasner indicated there is "still a long way to go for him" in his recovery.
- Eddie Nketiah: Ruled out alongside Doucoure in the same update from the manager.
- Jean-Philippe Mateta: Definitely out with a knee injury, also missing the following match against Burnley. A February return is anticipated.
- Justin Davenny: Unlikely to feature, with Glasner suggesting Sunday "is too early" but a return against Burnley on Wednesday is possible.
- Rio Cardines: Not expected back from injury until later in the month.
- Kporha: Has been managing a back injury with no recent update on his return timeline.
Palace Players Passed Fit:
- Daichi Kamada: A significant boost, having trained fully this week. Glasner confirmed his availability.
- Borna Sosa: Also confirmed fit and ready to return for the derby.
With both teams missing crucial personnel, the stage is set for a compelling M23 derby where squad depth and tactical adjustments may prove as important as individual brilliance. The return of key players like Kamada and Gomez could provide the spark needed in what is always a passionate and hard-fought local rivalry.
