Early injury update on Fulham and Crystal Palace ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final.
London rivals Fulham and Crystal Palace face off in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Saturday, with a coveted Wembley semi-final spot on the line. With several top teams already eliminated, both sides will see this as a real opportunity to make a deep cup run. Given their close league standing and local rivalry, this promises to be a tightly contested encounter.
Fulham have had a slightly stronger season, but in a knockout competition, anything can happen. Both teams will be highly motivated for the occasion. Here’s an early look at the injury situation for both squads.
Crystal Palace
Chadi Riad – Out
Riad is sidelined for the remainder of the season and is not expected back until early 2026 after suffering an ACL rupture. Manager Oliver Glasner confirmed: “Chadi has ruptured his ACL, so we have lost [him] for the rest of the season and even longer. There was no impact, it was just a normal situation in training, so it’s really frustrating.”
Cheick Doucoure – Out
Doucoure is also out long-term with a knee injury, with hopes of a summer return. Glasner stated: “After further assessments, Cheicky needs surgery on his knee, so we have lost [him] for the rest of the season. We hope [he] will return for pre-season.”
Jean-Philippe Mateta – Doubt
Mateta sustained a head injury in the FA Cup clash with Millwall and remains a doubt. Before the break, Glasner said: “Hopefully, I can play (vs Fulham). The doctor will decide. I will wear a mask, I think so.”
Joel Ward – Out
Ward remains unavailable with a calf injury, and there is no clear timeline for his return.
Will Hughes – Available
Hughes has reached the 10-yellow-card limit, but since that suspension only applies to the Premier League, he will be eligible for this cup match.
Fulham
Reiss Nelson – Out
Nelson is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after undergoing hamstring surgery. Manager Marco Silva commented: “He got surgery and could be out until the end of the season. It’s a big blow for us.”
Harry Wilson – Out
Wilson recently had a minor procedure but is expected to return in early April. Silva provided an update: “Everything went well; now we have to step by step keep recovering him. It’s going to take a long time, probably the beginning of April.”
Kenny Tete – Doubt
Tete has a slight chance of featuring, but a return in April is more likely. Silva noted before the break: “Kenny is step-by-step being integrated a little bit more. Not 100 percent with the team, but involved in some drills.”
Both teams are dealing with key injuries, which could influence how the match unfolds. Fulham will look to capitalize on Palace’s absentees, while the Eagles will hope to have Mateta available to boost their attack.
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