The highly-anticipated M23 derby returns this weekend as Crystal Palace prepare to host Brighton & Hove Albion at Selhurst Park on Sunday. Both teams have made impressive starts to the new Premier League season, with the Eagles currently sitting just one point above their rivals in the table.
Palace head into the match following a victory over Brentford, though they have since been involved in Conference League action. Brighton, meanwhile, will be buoyed by a comprehensive win against Leeds United in their last top-flight outing.
Brighton Team News: Defensive Blow and Attacking Doubts
The Seagulls face significant selection headaches, particularly in defence. Adam Webster has been ruled out for a large portion of the season due to a serious knee injury. He is joined on the long-term absentee list by Solly March, who is still a couple of months away from returning from his own knee issue, and Jack Hinshelwood, who is not expected back from an ankle injury until after the upcoming international break.
There is a glimmer of hope in the defensive department, as Joel Veltman is considered a doubt as he works to overcome a lower leg problem. In attack, a major question mark hangs over the availability of Karou Mitoma. Manager Herzeler offered a positive update last week, stating: "Mitoma is back on the pitch, he is training. I don't think it is a big issue, and we should see him before the international break."
Further attacking concerns include Brajan Gruda, who is battling a knee injury, and it remains unclear if he will be risked before the break. The experienced James Milner is also a doubt as he looks to shake off a minor issue.
Crystal Palace Team News: Striker Absence and Long-Term Concerns
For the home side, manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed a blow to his forward line. Eddie Nketiah will miss this fixture with a minor muscle injury. Glasner clarified, "We had a scan yesterday. The result came back and was better than our [original] concerns... It looks like he'll be back after the international break. So, he will miss three games but then should be back."
The midfield will also be without Cheick Doucoure, who is not expected to return from a long-term knee injury until late November. In defence, Chadi Riad remains unavailable but is closing in on a return. Glasner confirmed that Riad, who has suffered two nasty injuries in quick succession, will start training with the squad in the next two weeks, with a return after the international break looking likely. There was no positive update on the availability of Kporha, who continues to be sidelined with a back injury.
Derby Implications for the Premier League Table
This derby clash carries significant weight in the early stages of the Premier League season. With just a single point separating the two rivals, the outcome could have a notable impact on their standings. The extensive injury lists for both squads will test their depth and force their managers to make crucial tactical decisions. Supporters of both clubs will be anxiously awaiting final team news ahead of the Sunday kick-off at Selhurst Park.
