October 31 2000

David Woozley

Crystal Palace defender David Woozley will be out of action for at least eight weeks after suffering a broken leg at the Palace National Sports Centre. Woozley had just returned from a loan spell at Bournemouth.

The 20-year-old played for the Crystal Palace reserves against Leyton Orient last week and close to a first team recall.

Bournemouth were impressed by Woozley during his loan spell there but the Dean Court club could not afford The Eagles' asking price.

It is feared Woozley has suffered a broken tibia and fibia.

Meanwhile, Alan Smith is set to make a couple of changes for Wednesday's Worthington Cup game against Leicester City at Filbert Street.

Neil Ruddock and Andy Morrison are doubtful, while Fan Zhiyi is still on international duty with his country China.

Andy Morrison, who picked up a blow at Bolton on Saturday, might not be given the green light to play the cup tie by his club Manchester City even if he had been fit.

Palace will also be without Dougie Freedman who is cup-tied and the suspended Jamie Pollock.