Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta suffered a severe ear injury during an FA Cup match against Millwall, resulting in 25 stitches and a trip to the hospital. Despite the severity of the injury, Mateta pleaded with the team doctor to let him continue playing, unaware of the extent of his wounds. The incident occurred following a high boot challenge from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts, who has since been handed a six-match ban by the Football Association. Mateta has received considerable support from Crystal Palace and his teammates as he recovers and aims to return to action. He is targeting a comeback against Fulham in the FA Cup quarter-finals on March 29, wearing a protective face mask to safeguard his healing injuries.
During the match, Mateta was left bloodied after the challenge, leading to immediate medical attention and an ambulance ride to the hospital. His determination to keep playing, despite the gruesome nature of his injury, highlights his commitment and passion for the game. Mateta has already resumed individual training sessions as part of his recovery process.
The incident with Liam Roberts resulted in an extended ban for the goalkeeper due to dangerous play. Despite this, there seems to be no animosity between the players. Mateta shared that Roberts reached out to him while he was in the hospital to apologize for the incident.
"Liam contacted me and texted me while I was in hospital and I told him 'it is OK it is football'. He apologised. He was worried."
Mateta also acknowledged that sometimes emotions can lead to unintentional mistakes on the field.
"There is a lot of pressure. He wanted to do good, too much emotion makes you do crazy things. It was just a mistake. You learn from it."
Throughout his recovery, Mateta has been overwhelmed by the support from Crystal Palace and his teammates.
"From Palace, everyone was texting me and wanted to come to the hospital to see me. The doctor told them it was OK and that I would be visiting the training ground."
As he prepares for his return, Mateta will don a protective mask to ensure his stitches heal completely. He expressed his pragmatic approach regarding the protective gear he must wear.
"I need to wear a mask, I need to wear something. I will take the best one that is most comfortable."
Mateta's absence was felt during Crystal Palace's recent 1-0 Premier League home win over Ipswich on March 8. The team eagerly anticipates his return, as his presence on the field is invaluable.
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