Crystal Palace striker Jean Philippe-Mateta was hospitalised by a "reckless" challenge from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts during the Eagles' 3-1 win in the FA Cup fifth round, while Bournemouth reached the quarter-finals after a penalty shoot-out victory against Wolves on Saturday.
Roberts was sent off just eight minutes into the South London derby at Selhurst Park after catching Mateta's head with his boot as he raced out of the penalty area to clear the ball. Referee Michael Oliver only issued a red card after a VAR review of the challenge, with Roberts winning the ball before accidentally crashing his boot into Mateta's head.
"Thank you for all your kind messages. I'm doing well. I hope to be back very soon. And stronger than ever. Well done guys for a great job today," Mateta posted on Instagram.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirmed Mateta had suffered a serious injury to his ear but said the impact could have ended the Frenchman's career.
"Just imagine if he hits his face straight, with his power, with the studs, it is the end of JP's career," said Glasner. "I'm pretty sure he didn't want to injure JP in this situation, but I also think that you have to decide when you make such an impact, you just can't do it in this way."