Jean-Philippe Mateta: The Crystal Palace striker’s injury is “not as bad as feared”, says Oliver Glasner

He says the knee injury that hampered Jean-Philippe Mattita’s move to Milan last month is ‘not as bad as feared’ and he will not need surgery. Crystal Palace Director Oliver Glassner.

French striker Mateta was on the verge of joining Milan for £30m on deadline day, but the deal was canceled after knee problems emerged during two medicals.

The 28-year-old had been struggling with the injury during the first half of the season, but Glasner says “many specialists and doctors” downplayed its seriousness.

This news has boosted Mateta’s hopes of playing for France in the World Cup starting in June.

Glasner could not confirm when Mateta will return to training, but added that he will be “100% committed” to the Eagles and will be given a warm welcome when he is fit again.

“I am 100% convinced that JB will do his best when he puts on an Eagles jersey again, and I believe he deserves the best support then,” Glasner said.

“I am sure our fans will support him in the best way and appreciate what he has done for Crystal Palace.

“As long as the player is here, as long as the manager is here, as long as one of the staff is here, everyone can expect a 100% commitment to Crystal Palace, and that is what GB will show.”

Mateta has scored 56 goals in 186 appearances for Crystal Palace, including eight in the Premier League this season, but will face competition from club record holder Jorgen Strand-Larsen when he returns to the team.

Larsen joined Palace from Wolves in a deal worth up to £48m on deadline day.

Palace, 13th in the English Premier League, hosts Burnley, 19th, on Wednesday.