Dougie Freedman's fitness will not be risked ahead of the Eagles' busy Christmas schedule, according to boss Peter Taylor.
Palace face the prospect of playing four games in 11 days over the festive period and Taylor does not won't to gamble rushing the striker back from injury to play against Derby County on Saturday in case he suffers a reaction.
"He couldn't train today (Tuesday), but hopefully he will train on Thursday, said Taylor. "I will probably say Saturday is a doubt for him.
"With the Christmas period coming up that means I am taking a big risk putting somebody in a little too early and I don't think I will be able to do that."
Meanwhile Taylor also revealed the Eagles' other injury casualties Danny Butterfield and Leon Cort are due to return in one week and two weeks respectively.
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