December 21 2001

Dougie Freedman

Trevor Francis faces an injury nightmare for the game against local rivals Millwall on Boxing Day.

Hot shot Dougie Freedman had to limp off with a hamstring injury in last night's 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest.

There are problems at the back too. Jamie Smith is also doubtful as he picked up a thigh strain in the game. Tony Popovic and Hayden Mullins are also set to miss the game at the Den.

If Freedman does miss out, it will be a major blow as the Eagles will be keen to get revenge on the 3-1 defeat to the Lions in September.

Freedman, who has 15 goals this season, said: "I have had a problem with my hamstring for a few weeks now and it was getting worse as the game went on so I had to come off.

"It has been getting me down a little bit but, hopefully, it will be all right. I will find out how serious it is and whether I can play on Boxing Day.

"I was more disappointed with the game because we know we can play a lot better than that. We took a point but we should be taking all three at home."

Francis said: "Our next game is in six days and it's looking doubtful that Freedman or Jamie Smith will play as they are both carrying injuries but we will have to wait and see."

Palace go into the game against Millwall level on points in seventh position and are on a poor run of form which has seen them win once in the last eight games.