Crystal Palace Manager Oliver Glasner Discusses Player Returns, Squad Status, and Upcoming Newcastle Match

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner addressed reporters in advance of Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Newcastle United, scheduled for a 15:00 GMT kick-off. The following are the main points from his press briefing: Eberechi Eze and Eddie Nketiah are set to be available for selection “earlier than expected” following their recovery from injury. Glasner stated, “They worked pretty hard on their rehab, and also the medical staff did an amazing job, so that’s why they are available.” He acknowledged that both players would still need to have their playing time carefully managed. Glasner further noted a “better situation in the squad,” as additional players are returning from injury and have completed “one more week of training” in preparation for a week featuring three matches. Regarding the management of his squad to secure results during the demanding festive schedule, Glasner asserted: “Every player who starts must be able to perform at their top level, otherwise they don’t start. We tell every player not to manage their game – we don’t want them to play with 80% so they can play longer. We want everybody playing from the first second, for as long as possible, with their highest intensity.” The manager conceded that Crystal Palace has been “giving the ball away too easily” in goal-scoring areas. He indicated that his centre-backs would need to be “very focused and always concentrated” when confronting Newcastle United’s striker, Alexander Isak. Glasner described Eddie Howe’s team as possessing a “clear structure,” anticipating they would deploy their customary 4-3-3 formation. He commented: “They are an aggressive team who enjoy being very direct, playing forward and bringing the ball into the box quite early. They like having five or six players in attack, with a lot of pace in behind and on the wing.” Addressing Crystal Palace’s current standing in the Premier League, Glasner stated: “We aren’t happy with being 19th in the table – this is the truth. Earning eight points after 12 games is not something we can say is fine or leaves us in a good position.” He indicated that while performances are “getting better,” the team’s output has not been “good enough.” Lastly, Glasner commended Justin Devenny, describing him as “hard-working and determined.” He remarked: “I’m quite happy with him. In his second game, he played in his second position because we are convinced that he can do this. I’m really pleased he plays with confidence and isn’t shy. He is showing why he deserves to start – all credit to him.”