Mateta makes first-team return to training after horror injury

The French forward was forced off the pitch after a horrific challenge during Crystal Palace's FA Cup match against Millwall earlier this month.

Mateta's injury kept him sidelined for several weeks, but his recovery seems to be progressing well. On Tuesday, Crystal Palace shared a picture on social media showing the forward back on the training ground, with the caption "Welcome back, JP."

A previous post showed Mateta in team gear, wearing a black headband and a plaster below his ear where the stitches were needed.

Palace manager Oliver Glasner had earlier expressed optimism, revealing that he expected the forward to be fit for the club's upcoming FA Cup quarter-final clash with Fulham on March 29.