Crystal Palace are unlikely to sign another centre-back after defender Trevoh Chalobah was recalled by Chelsea. On Wednesday, the Blues used their recall option to end Chalobah's loan deal with the Eagles and he returned to his parent club.

The centre-half was due to play the FA Cup third round tie against Stockport County, so why was he prevented from taking part?

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner revealed his frustration at Chelsea recalling Trevoh Chalobah from his loan at Selhurst Park.

Chelsea have recalled defender Trevoh Chalobah from his loan spell at fellow Premier League side Crystal Palace.

Every few seasons, Crystal Palace fans fall into the same trap: They fall in love with a loan player from Chelsea. First it was Ruben Loftus-Cheek. Then it was Michy Batshuayi (the first time round when he could actually score goals). Then it was Conor Gallagher.

Crystal Palace fear Chelsea will recall on-loan defender Trevoh Chalobah early in January. Hamstring injuries to Chelsea centre-backs Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana have left the Blues light in defence. Rather than enter the transfer market this month, Chelsea have been considering bringing Chalobah back as cover.

Chalobah was reluctant to return to simply make up the numbers in Maresca's squad. He has been assured that he has a role to play