Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta had to be carried off on a stretcher with a head injury after a “reckless challenge” by Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts.
Roberts was sent off in the eighth minute after a video assistant referee (VAR) review during Saturday’s FA Cup fifth-round tie, having dashed from his line to clear a long ball but kicked the side of Mateta’s head.
The French forward, 27, was treated on the pitch and given oxygen before being taken to an ambulance, with substitute Eddie Nketiah coming on and scoring in the 3-1 win for the Premier League side.
He was set to undergo surgery on his ear in hospital.
Posting on social media, external later on Saturday, Mateta said: “I’m doing well. I hope to be back very soon and stronger than ever. Well done guys for the great job today.”
The Football Association has condemned some “let him die” chants made towards the Mateta from visiting fans while he was receiving treatment on the pitch, but said they do not breach its regulations.
However, the FA will investigate homophobic chants aimed towards Ben Chilwell, on loan at Palace from Chelsea, from Millwall supporters.
Thirteen minutes were added on at the end of the first half at Selhurst Park following the incident, with Palace 2-0 up after an own goal by Japhet Tanganga and a Daniel Munoz strike.
Palace chairman Steve Parish told BBC One at half-time: “So far, what we know is he [Mateta] has a bad gash behind his ear. He’s obviously at the hospital.
Mateta has been in superb form for the Eagles this season, scoring 15 goals in 33 appearances overall – including eight in his past eight Premier League games.
