Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson has provided an update on defender Gary Cahill and the pre-match news will not be what the Eagles fan base will want to hear.

The latest on Cahill

Roy Hodgson was speaking in his press conference in the build up to the big clash against Aston Villa on Boxing Day. He said: "Gary Cahill is injured unfortunately. He is the only absentee on top of the long term ones."

This is a big blow for Palace

Hodgson knows the importance of Cahill, as in the past he said, “He’s also brought us leadership qualities, he’s been very good leadership-wise. He’s the best type of leader; he’s the quiet leader people don’t see from Row Z in the stand.”

For now they don’t know the severity of the injury, and it will be very frustrating for Hodgson as the squad depth is crucial during the busy Christmas period.

The defender has made 4.4 clearances per game this season (WhoScored), showing his safety first attitude around the box. The former Chelsea star is 35, but has an abundance of experience, and  is still a vital asset for the club.

Therefore, Hodgson will be gutted to lose him for the Villa fixture, especially when the South London side have conceded the third most goals in the division (SofaScore) and Villa, led by Jack Grealish, are absolutely flying.

Have a read of Crystal Palace fans praising one player in the 1-1 draw to Brighton here!