Mateta scores as Crystal Palace pick up injury concern before Newcastle clash

Crystal Palace have suffered a fresh injury scare ahead of Sunday's meeting with Newcastle after Jørgen Strand Larsen was forced off during last night's 2-2 draw at Beşiktaş.

Pierre Sage's side produced a much improved display following their 5-0 defeat at Brighton, with Yéremy Pino and Jean-Philippe Mateta scoring in Istanbul. But an eventful Europa League trip ended with a concern over another of their strikers.

Strand Larsen forced off in Istanbul

Strand Larsen came on for Mateta in the 61st minute, but had to be replaced himself with five minutes of normal time remaining.

He had earlier been on the receiving end of the dangerous challenge that earned Ümit Akdağ a straight red card. The striker was then forced off following an awkward landing, with Eddie Nketiah taking his place.

There has been no official diagnosis yet, leaving his availability for Sunday's game at Selhurst Park unclear.

Mateta back amongst the goals

Mateta, meanwhile, marked his first start since the opening day with his first goal of the season, pouncing on a loose backpass before finishing emphatically.

Pino had cancelled out Wilfred Ndidi's opener in the 51st minute, with Mateta making it 2-1 four minutes later. Junior Olaitan's 73rd-minute equaliser denied Palace the win, despite the hosts' subsequent red card.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the game, Sage said:

"The performance was worse on Sunday, and it's a good step to go forward to win against Newcastle."

Earlier this week, we covered reports that Sage would remain in charge following the Brighton defeat. His side have since given him a better performance to build on, even if they still conceded twice.

The European trip leaves a tight turnaround before Sunday, but Newcastle cannot afford to bank on tired legs. Palace created chances before falling behind and fought back after the break, giving us plenty to deal with regardless of Strand Larsen's availability.