Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson is eagerly anticipating the return of key players, especially Jordan Ayew, whose absence has left the team struggling, particularly in the attacking department.
Ayew is currently representing Ghana in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.
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The Black Stars forward last featured for the Eagles on December 30, 2023, in their 3-1 victory against Brentford before joining his national team for the AFCON campaign. Since his departure, Crystal Palace has faced difficulties, suffering two losses, including a humbling 5-0 defeat to Arsenal over the weekend, as well as a draw.
Following the disheartening loss to Arsenal, Hodgson openly acknowledged the impact of Ayew’s absence, coupled with the injury to Michael Olise, on the team’s overall performance. The manager emphasised that the return of these key players is crucial to revitalising the team’s attacking prowess.
“Our attacking threat, when you lose [Michael] Olise and [Jordan] Ayew at the same time, is obviously blunted. That will change when those two players come back,” stated Hodgson, expressing optimism about the positive impact Ayew and Olise’s return could have on Crystal Palace’s offensive capabilities.
AFCON 2023 preview: Mozambique vs Ghana
Jordan Ayew is expected to feature for Ghana in their crucial AFCON group-stage match against Mozambique on Monday night. If Ghana secure a victory, Ayew may extend his stay in Ivory Coast for the knockout stages.
The Black Stars currently occupy the third spot in Group B and must secure a win against The Mambas while hoping for favourable results elsewhere to advance either as the second-placed team or as one of the best third-placed teams in the competition.