Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew says Marouane Chamakh is nearing a comeback.

Pardew says the acquisition of a new doctor – Iqbal – should put an end to Chamakh's injury woes.

"I think he's an important player for us, and we've taken extra care because his injury record isn't great," said Pardew.

"We have brought in a new doctor this year, who has tried to change his process of his comeback, make it more thorough and make him stronger so he doesn't break down again.

"It was a massive problem for us last year – he hardly played for me, one of our best players.

"He will be a like a new signing for us if we can get 30 games out of him.

"He is close. He will play for the U21s on Monday."