Crystal Palace handed major injury boost ahead of AZ clash | OneFootball

Crystal Palace Eye Momentum With Timely Adam Wharton Lift Before AZ Visit

Crystal Palace have received a timely lift as they prepare for their Conference League clash with AZ at Selhurst Park. Midfield organiser Adam Wharton was back in full training on Wednesday morning after recovering from illness. His absence was felt during the recent schedule, most notably in the 2-0 win over Brentford, but his return restores balance and control in an area where Palace have often relied on his composure.

Adam Wharton Returns To Strengthen Palace Options

Wharton’s availability arrives at an ideal moment for Crystal Palace, who are attempting to rediscover rhythm in Europe. The club’s form across competitions had dipped following a shock defeat to AEK Larnaca and a narrow 1-0 setback against Arsenal. Those results extended a four match winless sequence, an uncomfortable stretch for a squad that has been attempting to reconcile domestic demands with European expectations.

Recent wins over Liverpool and Brentford have steadied morale. Oliver Glasner stressed the significance of the Brentford result, saying “It was a great win and a very important win,” while commending his squad for winning the set play battle. The head coach also added, “Huge credit to the players. You could see in the last 20 minutes that their legs got fatigued, which is normal when you have such a tight schedule, but we defended very well.” His emphasis on fatigue underscores how important squad depth will be as Palace look to move up from sixteenth in the Conference League standings, where they sit with one win and one loss from their opening fixtures.

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Squad Updates Ahead Of AZ Clash

Alongside Adam Wharton, defender Chadi Riad took part in the session as he continues his comeback from a serious knee injury sustained in January. His return provides another welcome reinforcement in a defensive unit that has been stretched at times.

There was less encouraging news regarding Eddie Nketiah, who did not train after picking up a hamstring injury during the Carabao Cup win over Liverpool. He is not expected to feature again until after the international break. Long term absentees Cheick Doucoure and Caleb Kporha also remained unavailable.

AZ Challenge Offers Crystal Palace A Fresh Test

AZ arrive as a disciplined opponent in European competition, and Palace’s requirement for midfield stability makes Wharton’s return particularly relevant. The Dutch side traditionally favour measured build up patterns and sharp transitional movements, and limiting those threats will be a key task for Glasner’s group.

Crystal Palace, buoyed by an eleven match unbeaten home run in the league, can approach the meeting with AZ with renewed optimism. The combination of improved league form, the return of Adam Wharton, and the reintegration of Chadi Riad should allow the Eagles to field a more balanced side as they attempt to produce a convincing response on the European stage.