Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta drew comparisons with Justice League's Cyborg after donning special headgear on his return from a head injury at Fulham on Saturday.
The French striker was rushed to hospital after being accidentally kicked in the head by Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts during their FA Cup last-16 clash. Mateta required 25 stitches on his ear following the sickening incident, raising serious concerns about his health and immediate playing future.
Despite the severity of the injury, Mateta made a remarkably quick comeback, returning to Palace's starting lineup for their FA Cup quarter-final against Fulham. His appearance, however, caught everyone's attention due to the distinctive protective headgear he wore to safeguard his injured ear.
Fans quickly took to social media to react to Mateta's unusual appearance. One supporter, @brentmannerss, posted on X: "JP Mateta out here looking like Cyborg from Justice League…stinks of a hat-trick for the boy #boomboomboom." The reference compared Mateta to the Justice League superhero character known for his mechanically enhanced appearance.
Not all reactions were positive, with @DANTC46 tweeting: "What is Mateta wearing, looks like he is playing Call of Duty. These players are too pampered nowadays #mateta." Meanwhile, @kav_paul expressed genuine concern: "Looking at Mateta's ear protection, I do hope he can hear okay through that ear! #CPFC."
While some praised his courage with comments like @MattyT_631's "Mateta is a G for playing," others noted he seemed hesitant during the match, with @DannyMa42210645 observing: "Mateta seems to be a bit cautious, not really getting involved at all."
The 26-year-old striker, who has recently been linked with a potential move to Manchester United, later revealed he had feared suffering a brain bleed following the challenge. His return to action less than a month after such a serious injury demonstrates remarkable resilience.
Palace fans will hope to see Mateta back to his best when the Eagles travel to face relegation-threatened Southampton in Premier League action on Wednesday, as he continues his recovery while protecting his injured ear.
