Cheick Doucoure Set for Crystal Palace Comeback After 20 Months Out
Crystal Palace midfielder Cheick Doucoure is finally preparing to step back onto the pitch after nearly 20 months sidelined with serious injuries. The Mali international will feature in the upcoming Carabao Cup match against Middlesbrough, ending a long and difficult spell away from competitive action.
His Long Journey Back
Doucoure's last senior appearance was almost two years ago, with injuries severely interrupting his promising career. The 26-year-old, who earned the club’s Player of the Year award in his debut season (2022-23), first suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during a November 2023 defeat to Luton Town. After returning and making 13 appearances, he then tore his meniscus in January 2024.
Having demonstrated his fitness through performances with the Under-21 squad and completing a full pre-season without issues, Doucoure is now ready to rejoin Crystal Palace's first team. His absence has been keenly felt, especially since he attracted attention from clubs like Liverpool before his injury troubles began.
Manager Praises Doucoure’s Spirit
Coach Pierre Sage expressed great happiness about having Doucoure back. He described the midfielder’s reaction when told about his return as priceless. "When I told him he would be with us today, his smile was incredible," Sage said. "It was like I gave him $1 million. That kind of joy shows how much he loves the game and his desire to come back with the team." Sage confirmed Doucoure will get some minutes in Tuesday’s Carabao Cup third-round tie against Middlesbrough, marking his first competitive game since January 15, 2025.
Approach to Team Rotation
Though eager to include returning players like Doucoure, Sage is cautious about excessive changes to the starting lineup. He mentioned that heavy rotation has sometimes caused coordination issues on the field, which he wants to avoid. The manager emphasized that Crystal Palace aim to compete seriously in this year’s Carabao Cup and see the upcoming match as a chance to showcase commitment and ambition.
Palace Looking to Regain Form
The Eagles currently sit 13th in the Premier League after one win and two losses, seeking stability and a return to their recent trophy-winning ways. Over the past two seasons, Crystal Palace secured the FA Cup in 2024-25, followed by the FA Community Shield in 2025, and the UEFA Conference League last term.
After their cup fixture, Palace will host Ipswich Town in the league, aiming for consecutive victories following a narrow 3-2 win over Fulham.
- Competition: Carabao Cup
- Match: Crystal Palace vs Middlesbrough
- Date and Time: 8 Sept 2026, 20:45
