Crystal Palace and England defensive stalwart, Marc Guehi, is sidelined for an extended period following knee surgery, dealing a blow to club and country aspirations. Guehi, who sustained the injury during a clash against Brighton earlier this month, has been absent from the Eagles' last three fixtures, including their impressive 3-0 victory over Burnley under the new management of Oliver Glasner.

Reports from the Mail indicate that complications arose following the initial injury, prompting Guehi to seek specialist consultation in London, culminating in the decision to undergo surgery. While Crystal Palace remains optimistic about the defender's return before the season's conclusion, Guehi's absence will rule him out of England's forthcoming fixtures against Brazil and Belgium, hindering his international aspirations.

Having earned nine senior international caps already, Guehi's recent performances have showcased his potential as a key figure in Gareth Southgate's plans. The 23-year-old defender's determination to secure a spot in England's Euro 2024 squad is evident, with his recent inclusion in the national team lineup indicating his growing importance on the international stage.

However, Guehi's setback comes at a crucial juncture, with competition for places in the England squad intensifying. With established defenders like Harry Maguire vying for positions, Guehi faces an uphill battle to reclaim his spot upon his return to fitness.

Moreover, Guehi's performances for Crystal Palace this season have not gone unnoticed, with top clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United reportedly monitoring his progress. The defender's contract with Palace until 2026, coupled with his burgeoning potential, has made him a target for several Premier League giants, adding another layer of intrigue to his recovery process.

As Guehi embarks on his journey towards full recovery, the footballing world will be watching closely, eager to see how he navigates through this challenging period and whether he can emerge stronger for his club and England's national team aspirations.