German winger Marco Reich is facing an extended spell on the sidelines after it emerged his groin injury is worse than first thought.
The midfielder has been in top form for Palace since signing as a free agent in September, but he has not played since coming off during the 3-2 win at Brighton earlier this month.
It now appears the injury could be hernia-related and may require surgery. That would mean Reich could be laid up in the treatment room until the New Year.
The 27-year-old currently has only a short-term contract taking him up to January, although he is in the process of negotiating a longer deal.