Roy Hodgson confirms major Crystal Palace injury boost ahead of Everton clash

Roy Hodgson confirms major Crystal Palace injury boost ahead of Everton clash

Crystal Palace have been handed a major boost as Roy Hodgson has confirmed Michael Olise is ready to join the squad for the first time this season.

Olise returned to training in recent weeks after picking up a long-term injury towards the end of last season, but could not follow Eberechi Eze in returning for last week’s victory over Burnley.

Everton are set to visit Selhurst Park in what will be a tough game for Hodgson’s side, but they will now be boosted by the return of one of last season’s top performers.

Michael Olise to return to Crystal Palace squad

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Hodgson confirmed the excellent news that the 21-year-old is finally able to return.

“Michael Olise has trained with us fully this week, so he’s another one I’ll have in the squad ready for selection,” Hodgson stated.

Olise will almost certainly not start tomorrow, but it seems likely that we will see him come off the bench at some point.

The Frenchman needs to be eased back in following his injury, and will need minutes to gain match fitness.

If Crystal Palace find themselves chasing a lead, then he will be a very welcome addition as he will bring a lot of creativity to the side, having provided 11 assists last season.

If Palace find themselves in a comfortable lead, then Olise can make his return in a less intense setting, rather than one in which he will be tasked with defending a tight lead or chasing the game, so it is not certain that he will come off the bench, but he gives Hodgson an extra attacking option.

Olise extended his contract at the club in the summer following interest from Manchester City and Chelsea, and he will be aiming to eventually return to his best form once he regains his fitness.