March 7 2002

Curtis Fleming is set to miss the next two games after pulling his hamstring against Portsmouth on Tuesday night.

He came off after 28 minutes, being replaced by Jamie Smith, but hopes to fit in time for the home match against Walsall on March 23.

The Irishman will miss Watford at Selhurst Park on Saturday and the trip to Maine Road against Man City the following week.

Curtis has had a great start to his Palace career since his recent move from Middlesbrough. He has played at both left and right back positions and his loss will be a big blow to Palace's play-off challenge.

First-choice centre-backs Tony Popovic and Kit Symons are still out injured. Popovic was due to play in the Porstmouth clash on Tuesday, but broke down in training after aggravating his groin.