Crystal Palace boss explains why key player was absent against Chelsea

Crystal Palace boss Patrick Viera has said Joachim Andersen was left out against Chelsea with a calf injury.

The centre-back was replaced in the heart of defence by Joel Ward.

Palace ended up losing 2-1 to the Blues with last season’s loan man Conor Gallagher breaking their hearts with a late winner for Graham Potter’s side.

Disappointing loss

After the game, Viera explained where Andersen was, as per London News Online:

“He trained with us yesterday morning, and he felt something on his calf, that’s why he wasn’t involved today.”

Despite the disappointing loss in the end, there was still plenty of positives for Crystal Palace to take from the game.

They held their own against a strong Chelsea team buoyed by having a new manager and if they can play like that every week, they should have no problems seeing off teams.

Not having Andersen in defence was a blow and they will be hoping he can return sooner rather than later.

The Denmark international has been a key player for the London club since his switch from Lyon in July 2021.

He made 39 appearances in all competitions last term and has played six times already in this campaign.

Next up for Palace is a home clash against Leeds United next weekend as they look to bounce back.

They are currently 17th in the table and outside the drop zone on goal difference.