Roy Hodgson has confirmed that Crystal Palace will be without Ruben Loftus-Cheek for their trip to Manchester United.
The former England manager has been hit by a ‘plague of injuries’ with striker Christian Benteke also set for a stint on the sidelines.
Palace are still without a point or a goal in the Premier League this season, however, when fit Chelsea loanee Loftus-Cheek has been a positive.
“We’ve been hit by a plague of injuries,” the 70-year-old said.
“Injuries like this are four to six week injuries if you are lucky.
“Benteke is out. His injury is less serious than [Benjamin] Mendy but he’s got medial ligament damage which will keep him out of training for six weeks.
“Loftus-Cheek has a thigh strain that will keep him out.
“[James] Tomkins is sick so he’s out.”
While the Eagles will have a depleted squad for their trip to Old Trafford, Hodgson will be glad to see Wilfried Zaha return to training next week.
In Pictures | Roy Hodgson at Crystal Palace
“Wilf’s injury is similar to Christian’s,” he added.
“It’s taken him six weeks to get back to training.
“We’re hoping next Monday he will be with us and we can use him.
“Too early for tomorrow [against United].”
