Crystal Palace Manage Sarr's Fitness Ahead of Crucial Derby
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed the club is carefully managing the minutes of winger Ismaila Sarr due to concerns over a hamstring issue. This update comes just days before Palace host their rivals Brighton in a Premier League clash on Sunday, a match often referred to as the 'A23 derby' or 'M23 derby'.
Hamstring Concern Prompted Midweek Substitution
The injury worry emerged after Sarr reported a 'very, very small tightness' in his hamstring on Wednesday. Despite this, the Senegalese international started and played a key role in Palace's 3-1 Conference League victory over AZ Alkmaar on Thursday, scoring two goals. However, he was substituted in the 65th minute as a precautionary measure.
Explaining the decision after the match, Glasner said, 'The doctor told me. We have a game on Sunday as well, then he plays for Senegal, fortunately, here in London. We have to manage the minutes. This is what we could do [against AZ Alkmaar].'
Sarr's Vital Role and Broader Squad News
Sarr has been a crucial player for the Eagles this season. The 27-year-old has four goal involvements in eight Premier League appearances. He also scored twice in the 3-0 Carabao Cup win against Liverpool and found the net in the Community Shield triumph over the same opponents.
Despite the fitness concern, Glasner offered a positive overall squad update, stating, 'At the moment, it looks like all players who were involved in the squad [against AZ Alkmaar] will be available' for the Brighton match.
The manager was more cautious regarding midfielder Adam Wharton, who is recovering from a chest issue. Glasner noted that Wharton, who played 30 minutes against Alkmaar, felt 'a little bit rusty' but improved as the game went on. His availability to start against Brighton remains uncertain.
Defender Marc Guéhi also picked up a knock at the end of the European fixture but has assured the manager he is fine. The Seagulls, Palace's opponents, have had more preparation time as they are not involved in European competition this season.
