Gamers leaving a membership can create uncertainty in a beginning lineup, however it could additionally reveal a supervisor’s confidence in choices that they nonetheless have accessible. For Crystal Palace, that is a technique to take a look at issues after the departure of Joachim Anderson who makes a return again to Fulham the place he was on mortgage through the 2020-21 season. In a single sense it is a loss for the Eagles. In one other, it is fairly an opportunity for American heart again Chris Richards.

Richards joined Palace from Bayern Munich firstly of the 2022-23 season, however as a consequence of accidents and squad depth, it took him nearly a complete season earlier than changing into an everyday below Oliver Glasner. Now getting into his third season with the membership, the play of Richards shall be key to Palace’s defensive fortunes.

With expertise taking part in all around the protection and in midfield, there is not a lot that Richards hasn’t seen in recreation regardless of solely being 24. Talking on the finish of final season, Richards mentioned how Palace’s mindset is completely different below Glasner and it reveals in his play. It might have been a disappointing summer time for Richards with america crashing out of the Copa America through the group stage, however that is one other second for progress.

Richards is now a primary selection heart again for his membership and nation and could have the expectations that include that. They are not something that he cannot handle, however it reveals the expansion he has gone by since coming to Crystal Palace. As Newcastle United chase Marc Guehi, Richards might turn out to be the guts of the Palace protection which might be fairly an accomplishment. 

Loads is driving on his performances as Crystal Palace face a brand new look West Ham United this weekend. Potential incoming USMNT supervisor Mauricio Pochettino shall be holding an eye fixed out as Richards might tangle with new West Ham striker Niclas Fullkrug in a matchup that can check his energy.

Clashes like that occur weekly within the Premier League, and they’re moments the place younger gamers can enhance. As Richards continues to develop and acquire confidence, there is no restrict to how excessive he can go and take Crystal Palace as his significance will increase by the day.