- Crystal Palace vs Rayo Vallecano in Conference League final
- Adam Wharton and Chris Richards back in training
- Pair look fit and ready for the final in Leipzig
Crystal Palace duo Adam Wharton and Chris Richards have returned to training ahead of tomorrow night’s UEFA Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano. The pair have recently suffered injuries that raised concerns over their availability for the final.
Richards sustained an ankle injury in Palace’s 2-2 draw against Brentford two weeks ago. He tore two ligaments in his ankle and sat out the 2-1 loss to Arsenal on the final day of the season.
Wharton came off the bench in that game but also picked up an ankle injury. He was forced off and Oliver Glasner admitted he had been “a bit concerned” about the English midfielder.
Palace pair back in training ahead of final
Palace welcomed Wharton and Richards back to training on Tuesday, with the pair pictured participating in the session. It’s the best news possible for Eagles fans as the duo has been enormously important this season.
Wharton and Richards were part of team training rather than individual training, which suggests both will be fit and ready for the final. They have been regular starters throughout the campaign and will surely be included in Glasner’s starting lineup.
Great news
Glasner will be thrilled to have the pair back for the final, given their importance. Wharton has been Palace’s top assister this season, registering one goal and seven assists in 52 games across competitions.
The 22-year-old has delivered outstanding performances throughout the Conference League campaign. None more so than his excellent display in the 3-1 win over Shakhtar Donetsk in Poland during the semi-finals.
Glasner’s defence has been rock solid, and Richards has played an important role in that. The American has been dominant in the air and made some decisive tackles, such as in the 2-1 home win over Shakhtar.
