Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has launched a robust defence of his club's ambitions after Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino appeared to dismiss the Eagles as a "small club" in comparison to their Premier League rivals.
The controversy erupted when Pochettino, speaking ahead of Chelsea's match against Tottenham, suggested Palace had different objectives under new manager Oliver Glasner. The Argentine's comments were interpreted as questioning the South London club's top-flight status.
Parish's Passionate Rebuttal
Responding with characteristic fire, Parish took to social media to set the record straight. "We are not a 'small club', we are a London club that has been in the Premier League for 11 years," the chairman declared in a pointed message that resonated with Palace supporters.
Parish emphasised the club's significant achievements and stability, highlighting their decade-plus tenure in England's top division as evidence of their established Premier League credentials.
Glasner's Growing Influence
The timing of Pochettino's remarks proved particularly intriguing, coming just as Austrian manager Oliver Glasner begins to imprint his philosophy on the Palace squad. Since replacing Roy Hodgson, Glasner has been implementing his progressive tactical approach at Selhurst Park.
Under Glasner's guidance, Palace have shown promising signs of development, with the new manager working to build a team capable of competing with the division's established names.
London Rivalry Intensifies
The exchange adds another layer to the growing rivalry between two of London's Premier League outfits. While Chelsea have historically enjoyed greater success and resources, Parish's response underscores Palace's determination to establish themselves as genuine competitors in the capital's football landscape.
The public spat comes at a crucial stage of the season, with both clubs battling for position in the Premier League table and seeking to build momentum for the campaign's final weeks.
As the dust settles on this war of words, all eyes will be on Selhurst Park to see how Glasner's Palace respond on the pitch, with the Austrian now having extra motivation to prove his team belongs among the Premier League's respected competitors.
