Palace boost as Hodgson plans for Franca debut

Crystal Palace new arrival Matheus Franca is set to make his debut next weekend.

The Brazilian forward arrived in the summer for a fee of 17 million from Flamengo.

However, the 19-year-old has been held up due to an issue with his back, which has now cleared.

He is available for the upcoming Premier League clash against Newcastle United.

Palace boss Roy Hodgson will have to decide whether to start Franca or use him from the bench.

When he signed for the club, Franca told Palace media: "I'm very happy to be here. I hope I can bring good results for our supporters, for the other players and everybody else in the team.

I'm very excited for my first game here at my new home, giving my best for my new team.

"I hope all the supporters are happy with me coming here. I bet it is going to be good for all of us."