Defender Has Been on the Outside at Crystal Palace, but Starting to Emerge
Defender Chris Richards ended 2024 on a high note, helping Crystal Palace secure a crucial 2-1 victory over Southampton that pushed the Eagles six points clear of the relegation zone. The 24-year-old started in a back three alongside Trevoh Chalobah and Maxence Lacroix, filling in for suspended captain Marc Guehi.
"It's a good three points to end the year and an important three points for us," Richards said, reflecting on the victory. "I feel good and feel happy."
After representing the U.S. in the Copa America, Richards established himself in the Palace lineup during August and September before a hamstring injury against Manchester United derailed his momentum.
"I'd say a bit frustrating," Richards admitted about his inconsistent playing time due to injury and competition from summer signings. "Last year, at least towards the end of the season, I played a lot, but we've been on a little run this season and I had an injury spell as well."
After returning to fitness in November, Richards has fought to regain his place in the starting lineup, but over the last two months, he has only made four appearances and two starts in the Premier League. That most recent performance in the victory over Southampton should help his case in the new year, but it has been a tough road into Oliver Glasner's starting XI.
Looking ahead to their match against Chelsea, Richards acknowledged the difficulty of facing the in-form Blues but remained confident in Palace's approach. The Eagles will need to maintain the defensive solidity they showed against Southampton while supporting attacking players like Ebere Eze, whose winning goal against the Saints marked just his second Premier League strike of the season, need to continue to produce.
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