Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi was taken to hospital following the club`s historic victory in the FA Cup final. The defender was forced to leave the field during the match after being struck in the head by the ball around the hour mark.
Despite the injury sustained during the game, Guehi, 24, was able to participate in lifting the trophy alongside club veteran Joel Ward after the final whistle. However, he was then promptly transported to hospital via ambulance.
Initial concerns suggested the possibility of a fractured eye socket. However, subsequent reports indicate that the injury is likely severe bruising, thankfully avoiding a more serious bone fracture.
Guehi`s substitution during the match reportedly led to a heated confrontation on the sidelines between Manchester City`s head of sports medicine and the Crystal Palace bench, specifically assistant manager Paddy McCarthy. Security personnel had to intervene to diffuse the situation.
It remains uncertain whether Guehi will be available for Crystal Palace`s two remaining Premier League fixtures, which are against Wolves at home and Liverpool away, as they conclude their season.
Guehi was discharged from hospital around midnight and consequently missed the club`s celebration party. He was not the only Palace player requiring hospital attention; midfielder Adam Wharton also underwent tests.
Wharton was substituted in the 87th minute after being struck in the head by a powerful shot from Kevin De Bruyne. He underwent concussion tests and was not present on the field for the trophy lift. Despite this, he shared a picture from his hospital bed on social media, celebrating the victory.
Both Guehi and Wharton missed the main celebrations with their teammates and fans, which included goalkeeper Dean Henderson leading a lively chant, Will Hughes drinking a pint, and Jean-Philippe Mateta dancing.
Crystal Palace secured their first-ever major honour by defeating Manchester City 1-0 at Wembley, thanks to the sole goal scored by Eberechi Eze. This historic win means the Eagles will now prepare for their debut season in European competition.
Marcus Bellamy