Oliver Glasner has raised concerns about Adam Wharton after he picked up a knock in Crystal Palace’s 2-1 defeat to Arsenal. The English midfielder came off in the 62nd minute after showing clear discomfort with his ankle.
Wharton came on for Daichi Kamada at half-time after starting on the bench. He sustained an injury during the second half and went straight down the tunnel after his substitution.
The 22-year-old returned for Glasner’s farewell address to fans after the game. Fears grew over the seriousness of his injury ahead of the UEFA Conference League final on Wednesday.
Glasner on Wharton
Glasner spoke to Sky Sports after the game and gave an update on Wharton. He said:
“I am a bit concerned with Adam [Wharton], he twisted his ankle. Hopefully, it is not too bad. He says it should be okay.”
Wharton has been crucial for the Eagles this season, featuring 52 times across competitions, scoring one goal and providing seven assists. He started on the bench as Glasner opted to rotate ahead of the Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano.
The fact that he didn’t start the game and his injury came after being brought on is frustrating. He’s the second Palace player to suffer an ankle problem in as many games.
Chris Richards sat out the loss to Arsenal after tearing two ligaments in his ankle in a 2-2 draw against Brentford last Sunday. The American defender hopes to be fit for the final against Rayo.
Glasner on Arsenal defeat
Glasner’s farewell ended in defeat to the newly-crowned champions. Gabriel Jesus and Noni Madueke scored the visitors’ goals while Jean-Philippe Mateta grabbed a consolation goal off the bench.
The departing Palace boss reflected on the game:
“It is not the best feeling because we have had so many great games. Today showed our whole story; we didn’t play great for a long time but we didn’t give up. Fantastic stadium, atmosphere, players and of course fantastic supporters. I will definitely miss all of the people here.”
Glasner still has one more game to oversee as Palace manager and that comes in Leipzig on Wednesday. He has insisted that will be the best day in the club’s history as he bids farewell to the South London outfit hopefully with the European trophy.
