Crystal Palace Receives Major Fitness Boost Ahead of Crucial Fixtures
Oliver Glasner has delivered a significant fitness update for Crystal Palace ahead of a demanding schedule of matches. The Eagles are set to face Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Leeds United in the Premier League, following their Conference League encounter with Zrinjski.
Defensive Reinforcement Returns
In a major development, key defender Maxence Lacroix is poised to return to contention after recovering from an injury sustained during the first leg against Zrinjski. Initially feared to be sidelined for several weeks, Lacroix's swift recovery provides a timely boost for Palace's defensive lineup.
"There is still a small question mark with Maxence," Glasner stated. "He trained the session today. In a few situations he could feel a little bit of weariness, but he looks okay. We now have little more than 30 hours to kick-off, with treatment and everything. All others are fine – so nobody returns, but also nobody new is injured."
Critical Premier League Run
Crystal Palace currently sits on 35 points in the Premier League, ten points clear of the relegation zone. While effectively safe, the team aims to secure their top-flight status by accumulating an additional five to six points promptly.
The upcoming fixtures against Manchester United, Tottenham, and Leeds United present a crucial opportunity. Success in these matches, particularly securing four to six points from the Tottenham and Leeds games alone, would solidify Palace's position before facing tougher opponents like Manchester City and Newcastle United.
Nketiah's Extended Absence
However, not all news is positive for the Eagles. Striker Eddie Nketiah will remain unavailable until spring due to a setback in his recovery. Glasner elaborated, "I mentioned it last week: Eddie had a setback and it will take him now a few more weeks. We are now at the end of February. We expect him back in training. I think it will be the end of March, but because we don't have games, it looks like it will be April on the pitch."
Conference League Priority
Before focusing on Premier League commitments, Crystal Palace must overcome Zrinjski in the Conference League to advance. The tie is currently level after the away leg, making Thursday night's match a pivotal moment for the club's European aspirations.
With Lacroix potentially returning and the squad largely injury-free aside from Nketiah, Palace enters this critical period with renewed optimism and defensive stability.
