Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta is recovering from a severe ear injury sustained during a fifth-round FA Cup match against Millwall. Following a reckless tackle from Millwall's goalkeeper, which damaged his ear, Mateta underwent surgery and is now targeting a return for the quarter-final against Fulham. He expressed relief that his injuries weren't worse, initially fearing more serious damage. Mateta's resilience is evident as he looks forward to rejoining his team, albeit while wearing a protective mask.
Mateta expressed relief at the outcome of his injury: 'I was afraid I'd have broken bones or blood in my brain, but in fact, my ear was just destroyed.' He acknowledged that his quick reflex to turn his face may have prevented a more serious injury.
Mateta recalled his initial reaction after the injury: 'After that, I never lost consciousness. I was lying on the ground, and I said to the doctor: 'I'm fine, I want to play again.' But he, seeing my ear, replied, 'No, you have to go.'
Reflecting on the surgery: 'A plastic surgery specialist came and took pictures of my ear, which he refused to show me, so as not to let them stay in my head... He did a hell of a job.'
Mateta is optimistic about returning to action, stating his intention to play despite needing a protective mask for the upcoming FA Cup fixture against Fulham.
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