Crystal Palace give Jordan Ayew five days off after AFCON heartbreak - expected return date

Crystal Palace have given Jordan Ayew a few days off after crashing out of the AFCON with Ghana.
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Crystal Palace forward Jordan Ayew is expected to miss the Liverpool game this weekend - after Patrick Vieira gave him time off following Ghana’s AFCON exit.

Ayew played in all three games of the Black Stars’ disappointing campaign, which saw them fail to win any of their group stage matches for the first time.

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According to LondonWorld sources, Vieira informed the player he could have the weekend off, and so Ayew will return to London next week.

The Ghanaian forward will miss the Liverpool clash, but is expected to return for the FA Cup fourth round on February 5.

Jordan Ayew failed to find the back of the net at AFCON, despite his performances being filled with so much energy and heart.

Jordan Ayew playing for Ghana. Credit: DANIEL BELOUMOU OLOMO/AFP via Getty ImagesJordan Ayew playing for Ghana. Credit: DANIEL BELOUMOU OLOMO/AFP via Getty Images
Jordan Ayew playing for Ghana. Credit: DANIEL BELOUMOU OLOMO/AFP via Getty Images

The 30-year-old has come under huge criticism from the press in his country for his lack of goals, with only 18 goals to show for more than 70 caps for Ghana.

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Ayew has built a compact career in South London, which has been cemented by his hard-work and commitment at the club, even if some of the fans would prefer he scored a few more goals.

Former Swansea City forward Ayew has just one goal in his last 44 games for the Eagles, but his return earlier than expected will be a massive boost for manager Patrick Vieira, who has so far favoured the Ghanaian on the right side of his three man attack.

GUÉLOR KANGA of Gabon and JORDAN AYEW of Ghana during the Group C (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)GUÉLOR KANGA of Gabon and JORDAN AYEW of Ghana during the Group C (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
GUÉLOR KANGA of Gabon and JORDAN AYEW of Ghana during the Group C (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)

Crystal Palace v Liverpool build up

Vieira is expected to address the press on Friday ahead of their Premier League game against title-chasing Liverpool.

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The south London side go into Sunday’s game at the back of a smash and grab 1-1 draw against Brighton, where they were second best for most of the game, but could have gone home with all three points but for a late Joachim Andersen own goal.

Conceding late has been the club’s Achilles heel under former Arsenal midfielder Vieira, having dropped points late on against Brighton twice and Arsenal.

But the progress under Vieira has been crystal clear, with the team firmly positioned mid-table almost throughout the season.

Returning players from injury

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Nathan Ferguson, who has also battled with injury, also came through the game against Chelsea’s U23s a few days ago unscathed.

Everything seems to be falling in place in south London, and Vieira has already exceeded expectations after many thought he could struggle at the start of the season.