Richards On a Roll

Center-back Had a Productive Week as Palace Won Back-to-Back Matches

Crystal Palace's Chris Richards has continued his impressive form as a key defensive pillar in Oliver Glasner's resurgent Eagles squad. The 24-year-old American defender has been instrumental in Palace's recent success, helping the team secure two significant victories in the past week.

Against Fulham at Craven Cottage, Richards played a crucial role in Crystal Palace's surprising 2-0 upset over fellow American Antonee Robinson's side. The victory was secured through an Andersen own goal and a Daniel Munoz strike assisted by Jean-Philippe Mateta. Despite controlling only 38% of possession, Palace's disciplined defensive performance, with Richards at its core, helped them climb to 13th in the Premier League table.

Midweek saw Richards deliver another standout performance as Palace dominated Aston Villa in a convincing 4-1 victory at Selhurst Park. The US international was solid defensively but contributed offensively by forcing a save from Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, leading to Ismaila Sarr's opening goal. Sarr would later complete his brace, with Mateta and Nketiah also finding the net in the comprehensive win.

Richards's consistent performances have been crucial to Palace's impressive 2025 form. Since the start of the calendar year, the team has won seven of its ten matches across all competitions. His inclusion in the starting lineup for eleven consecutive matches since December underscores his importance to Glasner's defensive setup.

Looking ahead, Richards is expected to retain his place in the squad for Saturday's FA Cup fifth-round London derby against Millwall at Selhurst Park. With Marc Guehi available after midweek treatment and Palace losing just one of their last ten games against lower-league opposition, the Eagles will be confident of progressing to the quarterfinals as they continue their impressive run of form.