Crystal Palace boss provides injury news ahead of Brentford trip – with striker returning to the squad

Crystal Palace Roy Hodgson has confirmed that Jean-Phillipe Mateta will be back involved in the matchday squad for tomorrow’s Premier League clash at Brentford.

The French forward missed Monday’s 1-0 defeat at home to Arsenal with a knee injury.

Our paper reported last Sunday that the Eagles had knocked back two approaches – one loan deal and a £7million permanent move – from German side RB Leipzig.

Mateta has scored 10 goals in 67 appearances for the South Londoners.

Brentford find themselves fourth in the Premier League after last weekend’s 3-0 win over Fulham.

When asked if Mateta had played his last game for the club, Hodgson said: “Not that I’m aware of. He’s still contracted to the club.

“He’s on the bench tomorrow and there is a good chance we will see him through the course of the game.

“I have a rather naive view of it. Players who are contracted to the club and a part of my squad, I would expect to be available and to play.”

Will Hughes has missed the start of the season due to an injury he picked up in the 2-1 pre-season defeat to Colombian side Millonarios.

“He’s getting better,” added Hodgson.

“He’s making good progress – it was a nasty injury.

“Because he has progressed so well, you might see him train with us in the middle of next week.

“The latest I heard is that they’re expecting him to be available to train on Thursday of next week.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD