Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has been dealt a devastating blow with the confirmation that defensive linchpin Marc Guehi is facing a "long time" on the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury during Monday's Premier League clash against Manchester United.
The England international, crucial to Palace's backline and Euro 2024 hopes, was forced off in the second half following an awkward collision near the touchline. While the incident appeared innocuous, the aftermath has revealed significant concerns.
"It doesn't look so good," a visibly concerned Glasner admitted in his post-match press conference. "He will be out for a long time, I fear. We'll have to see. It's his knee."
Palace's Defensive Nightmare Deepens
The injury compounds what has been a torrid period for the Eagles' defence. Already without key players Cheick Doucoure, Michael Olise, and Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, Guehi's absence creates a massive void at the heart of Glasner's system.
His potential long-term layoff not only disrupts Palace's bid to finish the season strongly but also places his participation in this summer's European Championship with England in serious jeopardy, a huge concern for Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate.
Contrasting Fortunes: Martinez Escapes Unscathed
In a stark contrast of fortunes, Manchester United's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez emerged from a separate, sickening collision with a clean bill of health. The Argentine World Cup winner clashed heads with his own teammate, Raphael Varane, in the first half, requiring lengthy treatment on the pitch.
Despite the frightening incident, which saw Martinez continue after being cleared of concussion, United manager Erik ten Hag confirmed the goalkeeper is "okay" and should be available for their crucial upcoming fixtures.
This leaves Glasner to ponder a significant defensive reshuffle as his Palace side prepares for a challenging run-in, now without their most consistent and influential defender.
