Crystal Palace boss reveals reason behind Cheick Doucoure substitution decision in Ipswich win.
Oliver Glasner revealed that Cheick Doucoure was substituted off at half-time in Crystal Palace’s 1-0 win at Ipswich on Tuesday to avoid a red card.
Doucoure was put back into the starting line-up after being benched for the 1-1 draw at home to Newcastle on Saturday.
The Mali international started the game alongside Will Hughes in midfield but picked up a yellow card after 23 minutes and was walking a tightrope for the rest of the first half.
He was replaced by Jefferson Lerma at half-time.
“It was because of the yellow card,” said Glasner.
“He had one more foul [left before a second yellow]. When we played at Chelsea and Will Hughes had the same situation, we were lucky that he didn’t get the red card.
“We decided at half-time to make this sub. We didn’t lose a substitution window by doing it at half-time.”
Doucoure suffered a serious Achilles injury last season in a 2-1 defeat at Luton last November.
The 24-year-old made his first start in the Premier League this season in the 2-2 draw with Leicester but was then forced off with a toe injury.
He has made just seven league outings this season.
Glasner said: “Usually you say that for as long as you’re out, [that’s how long] it takes for you to be in your best shape again.
“Cheick is working very hard for this. We have options. Cheick is a great player and a great guy.
“It will happen. I don’t know when, but you will see the best Cheick Doucoure.”
