Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha has reportedly been sidelined for around six weeks with a hamstring injury.
With less than six months left on his Palace contract, speculations of a January departure have circulated.
Although all indications point to the veteran attacker finishing the season with the Eagles, offers could have arrived before Tuesday’s deadline.
That is no longer the case, as the Ivory Coast international is expected to be sidelined for the next six weeks.
According to the Daily Mail, Zaha suffered a hamstring injury against Newcastle United last weekend.
The 30-year-old had to be replaced in the 65th minute as Palace held Newcastle United to a goalless draw in the capital.
Zaha’s injury is a major setback for Palace, who have relied on the wideman for six goals and two assists this season.
However, Zaha had not provided either in a top-flight fixture since the beginning of November 6 before suffering a fitness setback against the Magpies.
Patrick Vieira and the Palace board must now decide whether to try to bring in a replacement before the transfer window closes.
Palace have not made a single signing since the beginning of the year, instead relying on loan deals for six different players.
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Vieira does have options because Michael Olise, Jordan Ayew, and Odsonne Edouard can all fill in on the left flank even though Zaha brings special qualities to Palace’s team.
Malcolm Ebiowei might also have entered the running, but the 19-year-old was permitted to move to Hull City on a temporary basis earlier this month.
Palace are scheduled to play five games between now and March 4, including matches against Manchester United and Liverpool.
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