Crystal Palace fans have reason to be optimistic as the team gears up for a crucial Premier League clash against Newcastle United this Saturday. Manager Oliver Glasner has delivered a double dose of good news: attacking duo Eberechi Eze and Eddie Nketiah are set to return to the squad after their respective injury layoffs. Eze has been sidelined for three matches, while Nketiah missed the last two, both due to hamstring issues. Their early return, Glasner emphasized, is a testament to their commitment and the outstanding efforts of the club’s medical staff.
“They worked pretty hard in their rehab, and also the medical staff did an amazing job, so that’s why they are available earlier than expected,” Glasner shared during Friday’s pre-match press conference. The manager’s enthusiasm is palpable, as the availability of Eze and Nketiah offers a much-needed boost for a team languishing at the wrong end of the table.
A Pivotal Week Ahead
Crystal Palace is facing a grueling schedule that could significantly shape their season. After hosting Newcastle, the Eagles travel to Ipswich for a midweek fixture before taking on Premier League champions Manchester City at Selhurst Park. Glasner acknowledged the challenge, noting that Eze and Nketiah’s returns must be managed carefully.
“I know Ebere can’t play all three games over 90 minutes,” Glasner admitted. “It’s good that he is back, and the same with Eddie. We have to manage the minutes they get, but it’s good just to have the opportunity when you need it.”
This pragmatic approach reflects Glasner’s understanding of the physical demands of the Premier League, particularly for players returning from injury. The focus will be on integrating them gradually, ensuring their impact is maximized without risking further setbacks.
Palace’s Struggles and the Road Ahead
The return of key players comes at a crucial juncture for Crystal Palace, who find themselves second-bottom in the league standings with just eight points from 12 matches. Their solitary victory came after nine attempts, and their recent form—two 2-2 draws against Wolves and Aston Villa, bookended by a 2-0 defeat to Fulham—has done little to ease concerns.
Glasner did not shy away from addressing the team’s precarious position. “We know we are not happy with being 19th in the table. This is the truth. Having eight points after 12 games, it’s not that we can say: ‘It’s fine, it’s a good position,’” he stated bluntly.
The manager highlighted the team’s defensive frailties as a critical issue, pointing out their habit of conceding two goals in three consecutive matches. “If we score two goals at Villa, if we score two goals at Wolves, at least in one of those games, we should have taken the win, but we conceded too many goals,” he said.
However, there are signs of progress. Glasner praised the improved performances and growing clarity in the team’s tactical approach, largely aided by returning players and improved fitness levels. “We have many signs giving us confidence,” he said, “but on the other side, we have to accept and respect especially the situation in the table, and that is not good.”
Facing a Formidable Opponent
Palace will face a Newcastle side currently sitting in 10th place with 18 points from 12 games. Under Eddie Howe, the Magpies have shown flashes of their potential but remain inconsistent. Despite Newcastle’s middle-of-the-table position, Glasner is under no illusions about the challenge ahead.
Newcastle boasts a dynamic attack and a resolute defense, qualities that could trouble a Palace side still finding its rhythm. However, the return of creative spark Eze and the clinical edge of Nketiah might just provide the Eagles with the tools to pull off a surprise result.
A Glimmer of Hope
While the table makes for grim reading, the mood at Selhurst Park is one of cautious optimism. Eze and Nketiah’s return is a welcome sight, not just for the immediate boost they provide but for what they symbolize: a team gradually getting back to full strength, with the potential to climb out of danger.
For Crystal Palace, the Newcastle match represents more than just three points—it’s an opportunity to reset their season. With the backing of their passionate home crowd and the injection of quality from returning stars, the Eagles will hope to take flight and begin their climb up the Premier League table.
