Crystal Palace set for injury boost ahead of Brighton clash

Crystal Palace are set for an injury boost ahead of Thursday’s Premier League clash at home to Brighton, with Jefferson Lerma expected to be available again for selection.

The 29-year-old was absent from Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Manchester City after coming off in the previous outing – a 2-1 defeat at home to Liverpool – due to a slight hamstring injury.

Lerma joined the Eagles in the summer on a free transfer from Premier League rivals Bournemouth and has made 13 appearances under Roy Hodgson.

Jairo Reidewald and Chris Richards made up the midfield two who started the game against Pep Guardiola’s side last time out.

But centre-back by trade Richards was forced into defence during the first half after Joel Ward suffered a hamstring injury during the game.

Academy midfielder David Ozoh, 18, came on for Ward and delivered an impressive performance against the current league and European champions.

Jordan Ayew will also be available after serving his one-game suspension following the red card he received in the Liverpool defeat.

Palace are winless in their last four outings against Brighton, with the 1-0 defeat at the Amex last March seeing Patrick Vieira lose his job at Selhurst Park.

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD