Cheick Doucoure and Crystal Palace
7 September 2026
Crystal Palace midfielder Cheick Doucoure is set to make his first senior competitive appearance in nearly 20 months after recovering from successive serious injuries. Manager Pierre Sage confirmed the Mali international will feature in the club’s upcoming Carabao Cup match.
Doucoure first ruptured his Achilles in November 2023, returned for 13 appearances, then suffered a torn meniscus in January last year. After Under-21 minutes, a full pre-season and continued training, Sage says the 26-year-old is ready for limited senior action.