Mateta discharged from hospital after horror collision in FA Cup clash

Crystal Palace striker received 25 stitches to severe ear laceration but all scans clear

Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has been discharged from hospital following a horrific collision during Saturday’s FA Cup clash with Millwall.

The French forward received specialist treatment and 25 stitches to a “severe laceration to his left ear” at St George’s Hospital after the incident, which occurred during Palace’s 3-1 victory.

Palace confirmed Mateta’s discharge in a statement on Saturday evening, explaining that “all scans were clear and JP is feeling well.”

The club added that Mateta “will now rest and recuperate over the following days where his progress will be monitored by our club doctor.”

Mateta was injured in a collision with Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts that required oxygen treatment on the pitch before he was transferred to hospital.

The Palace striker took to Instagram following the incident to reassure fans, writing: “Thank you all for your kind messages. I’m doing well. I hope to be back very soon. And stronger than ever. Well done guys for the great job today. I love you. JP.”

Eagles manager Oliver Glasner spoke about the incident after the match, expressing concern despite the cup victory.

“He is conscious and he is in hospital. His ear looks terrible. It’s a very serious injury so we hope all the best for him,” Glasner said.

“We are not really happy, we can’t be really happy. Of course, it’s a great win and into the quarter-finals but when you lose a player, especially with a foul like this, you have two different feelings in your stomach.”

The Palace boss described the incident as “terrible” but added: “I’m sure the goalkeeper didn’t want to injure JP in this situation, no player wants this.”

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish took a stronger view, reportedly calling it the “worst challenge” he had ever seen, even suggesting Mateta could have been killed.

The Eagles advanced to the FA Cup quarter-finals with their 3-1 win over Millwall, but may be without their striker for next Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Ipswich as he continues his recovery.

Palace thanked “the medical staff at both Selhurst Park and the hospital for their help and professionalism” as well as those who sent supportive messages to both Mateta and the club.