Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is facing a significant defensive headache ahead of crucial London derbies this festive period after key centre-back Chris Richards was stretchered off during the Carabao Cup defeat to Arsenal.
Defensive Pillar Forced Off in Worrying Scenes
The 25-year-old USA international, who has been an ever-present in the Premier League this season, was carried from the pitch at the Emirates Stadium after 74 minutes. The immediate concern was visible, with BBC Radio 5 Live reporter John Murray noting "a lot of blood on the top of Richards' foot" from what appeared to be a serious cut.
Richards has been a revelation under Glasner, starting every league game and being a cornerstone of a defence that has conceded only 19 goals this term—fewer than both Liverpool and Manchester United. His consistency had drawn high praise from teammates, including forward Eddie Nketiah, who in October called him "fantastic" and pivotal to the team's success.
Timing Could Not Be Worse for Eagles
The injury comes at a terrible time for a squad already stretched by commitments in the Europa Conference League, Carabao Cup, and Premier League. While a firm timeline for his recovery is not yet known, the need for a stretcher suggests a potentially significant lay-off.
This leaves Glasner with a major selection dilemma. He turned to veteran Nathaniel Clyne off the bench against Arsenal, and the full-back may now be required to deputise in central defence during the busy schedule.
London Rivals Set to Capitalise
The absence of Richards is likely to be keenly felt in Palace's next two fixtures. Tottenham Hotspur visit Selhurst Park on Sunday afternoon, before Fulham make the trip to south London on New Year's Day.
Both opponents will now be preparing to face a potentially makeshift Eagles back line, offering them a possible advantage in these tightly-contested capital clashes. For Palace, the focus shifts to managing without one of their most reliable performers during a critical point of the season.
