Oliver Glasner is hopeful Crystal Palace midfielder Cheick Doucoure will return before the end of the season.
The 26-year-old has had rotten luck with injuries, rupturing his achilies in November 2023 before tearing his meniscus in January 2025 – managing just 13 games between the two.
But after 14 months out, Doucoure completed 45 minutes unblemished for Palace’s Under-21s last Friday.
The Malian international will continue to ramp up his recovery on Saturday afternoon, when he is planned to receive 60-70 minutes for the Under-21s as his time on the pitch gradually increases.
“He had a very good 45 minutes and no issues afterwards, which is the most important thing,” said Palace boss Glasner.
“He’s training with us, but joined the Under-21s session today because ours was not at the highest intensity, while they had quite an extensive session.
“He will play for the Under-21s on Saturday. Hopefully for longer, around 60/70 minutes, as long as he feels comfortable on the pitch.
“This will help him get back into his best shape, and hopefully we can see him play at Selhurst for us this season.”
