Oliver Glasner was delighted for Matheus Franca after the Brazilian attacker scored his first goal for Crystal Palace in a late 1-1 draw at Southampton on Wednesday.
Franca joined Palace in August 2023 from Flamengo in a deal worth up to £26million but had only registered 15 appearances for the club in all competitions prior to the trip to St Mary’s due to various injuries.
The now 21-year-old had surgery on a groin injury in April 2024 and fractured a rib in pre-season training.
Franca salvaged a late point for the Eagles as he met Jefferson Lerma’s cross to turn a header beyond Aaron Ramsdale in the 92nd minute.
“I’m very pleased,” said Glasner.
“It’s his first goal for Crystal Palace. He was injured for 10 months.
“When you see his story, he had three or four and surgery.
“He was always working hard and had a great support from everyone in the club.
“There is a moment in life when you get back what you invest.
“He had a great two weeks. He had his first child and became a father. He had a birthday this week and now he has his first goal.
“In two weeks he had a lot of positive feelings and emotions back for all his investment.
“And of course, we got a point. He can score goals – it’s a feeling.
“It was a great header – it wasn’t easy. He scores many goals in training. Well done.”
PICTURE: ALAMY
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