Newcastle United drew at Selhurst Park in the Premier League on Sunday.
Joselu was not part of the Newcastle squad for the Premier League game against Palace away from home at Selhurst Park on Sunday afternoon.
Benitez has explained why the 27-year-old striker did not play against the Eagles.
“He has a virus,” the Newcastle boss told The Chronicle about Joselu. “Then it was very dangerous for everyone because in the end all the family are with the virus and you have to be careful. He was very weak.”
Could Joselu have made a difference?
Joselu joined Newcastle from Premier League rivals Stoke City in the summer of 2017 for a transfer fee reported by Sky Sports to be worth £5 million.
The Spanish striker has been a mainstay in the Magpies’ team, making 19 starts and three substitute appearances in the Premier League so far this season.
The former Stoke man, though, has scored just four goals and provided one assist, and he has also failed to convert many chances.
Joselu would probably have not been able to make too much of a difference against a Palace side who probably should have won the match on Sunday.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
