Crystal Palace are set to be without new signing Jean-Philippe Mateta in their clash against West Ham United due to issues with the Frenchman’s visa.
The 23-year-old joined the club on an 18-month loan deal last week.
Crystal Palace Striker Jean-Philippe Mateta Set to Miss West Ham United Clash
‘Too Soon’
According to Palace boss Roy Hodgson, the visit of West Ham would have come soon for Mateta.
He said to Palace TV: “It’s too early. There’s a few visa [matters] to sort out but hopefully we’ll get them sorted out quickly and he’ll be available very soon.
“But it would have been too soon to have him in the squad for tomorrow whatever [had happened].”
However, Hodgson remained in upbeat spirits about his new signing, who joined from Mainz after registering 10 goals in 17 appearances this season.
“He’s looking good – we’re very pleased to have him here,” he said. “We’ve chased him for a period of time, and luckily the club was able to strike a deal.
“We’re hoping he’ll do as well as we anticipate.”
Palace had been tracking the Frenchman since last summer, although a deal could not be reached for him to move to Selhurst Park.
However, an agreement was sealed swiftly last week, with the 23-year-old joining on an 18-month loan with an obligation to buy.
With Mateta missing, it is likely to mean that Christian Benteke will return to the starting line-up against the Hammers after being dropped to the bench in their 4-0 defeat to Manchester City.
The Belgian, though, has been linked with a move away from South London following the arrival of Mateta, with West Bromwich Albion one of the clubs reportedly interested. However, Baggies boss Sam Allardyce does not believe that Benteke is available.
“I am not sure if Christian is available” he said.
“If they came to me and said he was available… I am not sure that is the case at the moment.
“If he is available I would be interested, everyone knows I am interested in a frontman.”
Main Photo
Embed from Getty Images
