Crystal Palace have been unlucky when it comes to injuries this season, but there is finally some positive news over one player.
There was some surprise when Palace signed goalkeeper Dean Henderson from Manchester United in the summer. Sam Johnstone is Palace’s established number one, and given that there were gaps in the squad that needed filling, investing £15m on another keeper was a bizarre move in the eyes of many fans.
The deal could not have gotten off to a worse start, as having initially started on the bench, Henderson made his debut against his former club in the Carabao Cup, but was withdrawn with a torn thigh.
He has been absent since September as a result, whilst Johnstone has been one of Palace’s most impressive performers this season.
It was not boding well for Henderson at all, but he has now been handed some positive news over his injury.
Dean Henderson given positive injury update
A report from London News Online has now revealed that the 26-year-old is “making good progress” in his injury recovery, and he could be set to return to action soon.
Henderson could return before the end of December, and he may feature for the under-21 side before he is considered ready for first-team action.
This news is positive for him, as if he is ready by January, he could make a return to the starting lineup as Palace enter the FA Cup third round.
Why did Crystal Palace sign Dean Henderson?
Despite the bad luck over his injuries in the last year, Henderson has been outstanding at times for Man United, Sheffield United and Nottingham Forest in the last few seasons, and was an excellent goalkeeping prospect.
The presence of Johnstone may mean he was an unnecessary signing this summer, but he may be viewed as someone who could be the long-term successor to the Palace number one.
Palace now have two England internationals within their goalkeeping ranks, and Henderson will hope that Roy Hodgson’s side can go on a run in the FA Cup which would allow him to fight for a starting spot this season.
