Cheick Doucoure has not featured for Crystal Palace since a 2-0 win at Leicester back in January 2025.
The Mali international tore his meniscus shortly after that victory, having only just returned from a ruptured achilles which he suffered during a 2-1 defeat at Luton in November 2023.
It has been a nightmarish time for the 2022/23 Crystal Palace Player of the Season as he battles serious injuries, but Oliver Glasner has now shared an encouraging update on Cheick Doucoure after the Malian played 45 minutes for the U21 side in a 2-1 win over Blackburn last Friday.
Oliver Glasner confirms “no issues” for Cheick Doucoure after return to action
In what is simply fantastic news, the Austrian was able to confirm that the Crystal Palace No.28 suffered no setbacks during his return to the pitch last week.
Speaking in his press conference ahead of the UEFA Conference League clash against AEK Larnaca, Glasner said: “He had a very good 45 minutes, no issues afterwards, so that’s the most important thing. He joined the under 21 (training) session today as our session was not the highest intensity and the under 21s had a quite extensive session.
“That’s best for him. He will play on Saturday with under 21s and hopefully longer, 60, 70 minutes as long as he feels comfortable. Hopefully we will see him playing at Selhurst this season.”
That clash on Saturday comes against Wolves in Beckenham, so Doucoure – one of the most expensive players in our history – will at least be on home soil in familiar surroundings as he continues his steady recovery from knee problems.
Cheick Doucoure could save Steve Parish millions if he can prove his fitness
This summer, the central midfield department could take a hit as Daichi Kamada and Jefferson Lerma both see their contracts expire.
Sky Sports have already reported that Kamada is expected to depart, and it remains to be seen whether Lerma will pen an extension.
If both leave, Parish will have to find replacements for two established, experienced players in an area where Crystal Palace could already use a new face or two to strengthen the midfield anyway.
However, if Doucoure – who Liverpool wanted before his injuries – regains full fitness and can become a viable option for a starting berth once again, it would make this recruitment task a little less difficult.
