Oliver Glasner delivers fresh update ahead of Conference League clash with Zrinjski Mostar as Palace juggle European and domestic demands
Crystal Palace head into their UEFA Conference League play-off second leg against Zrinjski Mostar with uncertainty surrounding two key players, as Oliver Glasner provided the latest injury update.
The Eagles host the Bosnian side at Selhurst Park following last week’s 1-1 draw in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but defender Maxence Lacroix remains a doubt after being forced off in that first leg.
Lacroix subsequently missed Palace’s 1-0 Premier League victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the weekend, raising concerns about his availability for Thursday night’s decisive European fixture.
Glasner admitted there is still work to be done before a final call is made.
“There is still a small question mark with Maxence,” the Palace manager said.
“He trained in the session [on Wednesday]. In a few situations he could feel a little bit of weariness, but he looks OK. We now have little more than 30 hours [until kick-off], with treatment and everything.”
Only after that careful assessment did the extent of the issue become clearer, with Lacroix managing an adductor problem.
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While not described as severe, the tight turnaround means Palace’s medical staff will monitor him closely before deciding whether he can start or feature from the bench.
Eddie Nketiah suffers injury setback
There was less encouraging news regarding Eddie Nketiah. The former Arsenal striker, who has been working his way back toward fitness, has suffered a setback in his recovery.
“Eddie had a setback and it will take him now a few more weeks,” Glasner revealed.
“We are now at the end of February. We expect him back in training… I think it will be the end of March, but because we don’t have games, it looks like it will be April [on the pitch].”
The update suggests Nketiah is unlikely to return to competitive action until April, dealing Palace’s attacking options a blow at a crucial stage of the season.
“All others are fine – so nobody returns, but also nobody [new] is injured,” Glasner added.
With Palace having already played 41 matches across domestic and European competitions – and potentially 19 more if they reach the Conference League final – Glasner insists he will continue selecting his strongest available side in both competitions rather than prioritising one over the other.
