Hurzeler Discusses Player Fitness, Crystal Palace Rivalry, and Glasner’s Influence

Fabian Hurzeler addressed reporters ahead of Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace, scheduled to kick off at 14:00 GMT at home. The following are the main points from his press conference: Regarding player availability, Joel Veltman’s participation is “50:50”, as the defender requires further evaluation “in the next few days”. Hurzeler indicated Jack Hinshelwood’s chances of playing are “40:60”, Ferdi Kadioglu’s are “20:80”, and James Milner’s are “10:90”. Hurzeler explained, “Those are percentages.” Solly March is reportedly “closer and closer” to making his return from injury. While he might be a “possible option” for the upcoming weekend, Hurzeler emphasized the necessity of being “really patient” with athletes recovering from injuries. He stated: “[March] is doing well and progressing really well. He is pushing to be an option for the squad, but it’s about talking with the medical staff to work out when is the right time to integrate him into a matchday.” Hurzeler mentioned he has been “reflecting” on his leadership of the team, especially following recent instances of dropped points. He remarked: “It is always the first thing, to reflect on myself, my decisions and my behaviour. You cannot be critical of other people if you are not the most self-critical person in the building. It always starts with me.” He expressed that it has been “nice” to have a complete week for preparation. The team has focused on “game management” and strategies to “fulfil that winning culture”. He concluded: “It is a lot of work, but work pays off.” Hurzeler acknowledged the significance of the match against Palace, stating there is no need to “artificially emphasise” the rivalry. He commented: “Luckily, I saw the game live at Palace last season and I experienced how the rivalry is and the mood between the two clubs. It is about the three points but, on top of that, it is about the meaning of the game. We need to give everything to win this derby.” Regarding Palace, currently unbeaten in their last four matches, Hurzeler observed: “They are a compact team with individual quality. They are very good at defending and very good in transition. We are going to have to be aware of not giving the ball away. Where they are at the moment doesn’t represent their real quality or ability.” He further disclosed that Oliver Glasner has served as a “role model” for him. He stated: “When I was at St. Pauli, we played a similar system with five at the back. He had great success with his former club, Frankfurt. Winning a trophy with this club is a big thing. His style of play is outstanding – always very compact and good in transition. When he arrived at Palace, he immediately had an impact.” Hurzeler mentioned that they have maintained contact since he assumed his role with the Seagulls. He commented: “He is very helpful and open-minded. He is a great coach for me. He has achieved a lot and is continuing to make a big career. He is a role model. How humble and grounded he is – he has the attitude to become a great manager.” Jan Paul van Hecke, potentially reaching his 50th Premier League appearance this weekend, was described as one of the league’s “most underestimated” players. Hurzeler noted: “He is not only a player who really wants to develop himself every day, he also has this winning mentality inside him. He is ready to grow and be a leader.”