Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta is now “conscious” after being taken to hospital.
Mateta was kicked in the face by Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts in the eighth minute of Saturday’s FA Cup fifth-round clash.
Referee Michael Oliver initially showed Roberts a yellow card but upgraded it to a straight red after reviewing the incident on a VAR monitor pitchside.
Palace chairman Steve Parish described the incident as “the most reckless challenge” he has ever seen.
He also revealed that Mateta had a gash behind his ear and was receiving further treatment at a local hospital.
Parish expressed his anger at the tackle, which resulted in Roberts being sent off.
After the match, Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirmed that Mateta was “conscious.”
Later on Saturday, Mateta wrote on social media: “I’m doing well.
“I hope to be back very soon and stronger than ever. Well done, guys, for the great job today.”
