Club News

Irvine delivers mixed injury news

Olsson misses Palace game as Foster returns

FIT-again Ben Foster has returned to full training - but Jonas Olsson is out of Saturday's Barclays Premier League game against Crystal Palace.

Goalkeeper Foster has recovered from the minor calf injury that kept him out against Manchester United.

But the news is less good on Olsson, who is out of action with an Achilles' tendon injury that has required an injection.

Also missing is Silvestre Varela, who is still in rehab following his recent groin operation.

Claudio Yacob, meanwhile, is back in Argentina due to a family illness.


ON OLSSON, Irvine said: 
"It's been something that has been bothering him for some considerable time. 

"He has had an injection, if you can imagine getting an injection in your Achilles, it's not nice. He's in a bit of discomfort still.

"It's not something that's career threatening, that's for sure but it's uncomfortable that's for sure.

"Surgery is not something that is being spoken about at this moment, hopefully this injection works and he's OK. If it doesn't work then clearly we have to look at something else."


ON YACOB: 
"Unfortunately there is a family illness, he has had to go back to Argentina, hopefully everything will be OK.

"He's not going to be back before this game, we are in contact with him - as much as we can whilst being compassionate as well.

"It raises the argument about things that are more important than football. I have told him he can has as much time as he needs. Hopefully we will see him back soon."


ON PALACE:
"When you look at Palace they are extremely well organised. 

"Neil Warnock has taken over a side that were very well-drilled. They have great structure, discipline when out of possession and they counter-attack well. It's different game to Manchester United but very tough too.

"Obviously we are hoping to get a victory but it's not a foregone conclusion because they are a very tough team to play against. We will have to play very well to beat them."