Crystal Palace have been handed a huge lift ahead of their upcoming Premier League showdown with Liverpool, and fans at Selhurst Park will be feeling a renewed sense of optimism. After a challenging start to the season that has seen Palace struggle for consistency, manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed the return of two key players to full training — a timely boost before they face one of the league’s most dangerous sides.
The headline news is that talismanic forward Eberechi Eze is expected to be fit and available for selection. Eze, who has missed the last three matches due to a hamstring injury, is widely regarded as the creative heartbeat of this Crystal Palace side. His ability to carry the ball through midfield, link up with the forwards, and score from distance makes him a game-changer on his day. Glasner expressed his delight in his pre-match press conference, saying Eze had looked “sharp, hungry, and ready” during training sessions this week.
In addition to Eze, the Eagles are also set to welcome back star defender Marc Guéhi, who has been sidelined with a minor knee issue. Guéhi’s return is a massive relief for Palace supporters, as his leadership and composure in the backline have been sorely missed. Palace have looked vulnerable defensively in his absence, conceding avoidable goals in recent matches, but his presence should bring much-needed stability against a Liverpool attack that features Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Luis Díaz.
The timing of these returns could not be better for Palace. Liverpool are flying high near the top of the table and remain unbeaten in their last several matches, playing with the high intensity and fluid attacking style that has become a trademark under Jürgen Klopp. To get a result against them, Palace will need to be at their very best — and having two of their most influential players back gives them a fighting chance.
Glasner is likely to tweak his tactical approach to make full use of Eze’s creativity. Palace may look to sit deep, absorb pressure, and hit Liverpool on the counterattack, relying on Eze to orchestrate quick transitions. With Jean-Philippe Mateta and Odsonne Édouard competing for the striker role, Palace suddenly look far more dangerous going forward than they have in recent weeks.
Supporters will also be buoyed by reports that the Selhurst Park atmosphere could play a crucial role on matchday. Known for its passionate home crowd, Palace often thrive under the lights against top-six opponents. The fans will be hoping to see a repeat of some of their famous giant-killing performances in recent years, when they’ve taken points off Liverpool, Manchester City, and Arsenal.
While Liverpool will still enter the match as favorites, this news means Palace head into the clash with momentum and belief. If Eze and Guéhi can hit the ground running, Glasner’s side could turn what many predicted to be a one-sided contest into a fiercely competitive affair. Palace now have the tools to frustrate Klopp’s men — and perhaps even pull off a shock result
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