Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur face a daunting Premier League encounter on Sunday, with both squads severely depleted by a combined total of 16 confirmed absences and one major doubt.
Injury Crisis Hits Both London Clubs
The Eagles head into the match looking to end a run of three consecutive defeats, the latest a painful Carabao Cup quarter-final exit to Arsenal on penalties. Their opponents, Spurs, are also in need of a result after a loss to Liverpool which saw two players sent off, further damaging their European qualification hopes.
For Crystal Palace, manager Oliver Glasner is contending with a lengthy treatment room. Defender Chris Richards is a major doubt after suffering a foot injury requiring stitches against Arsenal. Glasner remains hopeful but admits his availability is uncertain.
The list of definite absentees is extensive. Full-back Daniel Muñoz is out until January following surgery, while midfielder Cheick Doucouré has suffered a setback in his recovery. Defender Chadi Riad is back in training but needs time to regain match fitness.
Further blows include Daichi Kamada, ruled out for 8-10 weeks with a serious hamstring injury, and Rio Cardines (adductor issue). Caleb Kporha (back) remains out, while Ismaila Sarr is away at the African Cup of Nations. Midfielder Xavi Simons is suspended after his red card last time out.
Tottenham's Squad Stretched Thin
Tottenham's situation is equally dire. They will be without centre-back Cristian Romero, who is suspended after his sending off against Liverpool. Key midfielder Pape Matar Sarr is also at AFCON, alongside Yves Bissouma.
Injuries continue to plague Ange Postecoglou's side. Destiny Udogie is confirmed out until January with a hamstring problem, and striker Dominic Solanke is also sidelined, though a January return is expected. Winger Dejan Kulusevski is closing in on a comeback but is not yet back in full training.
The long-term absence of James Maddison continues to be felt, with the playmaker out for most, if not all, of the season after ACL surgery. Youngster Kota Takai is back in training but lacks match sharpness after a long spell out.
Implications for the Premier League Showdown
The sheer volume of missing personnel is set to force both managers into significant tactical reshuffles. The match, already crucial for league positioning, now becomes a test of squad depth and resilience.
With so many first-team players unavailable, opportunities will arise for fringe and academy players to make their mark. The outcome could hinge on which manager best navigates this unprecedented selection crisis.
Fans can expect a highly unpredictable contest at Selhurst Park, where the benches may prove as important as the starting elevens.
