Richards and the FA Cup Final

Defender Should Start as Crystal Palace Tries to Win First Major Trophy

As Crystal Palace prepare to face Manchester City in Saturday's FA Cup final, American defender Chris Richards stands on the verge of making history. If Palace triumph at Wembley, Richards would become just the third American player to win the prestigious trophy in its 153-year history, following Tim Howard (Manchester United, 2004) and Julian Sturgis (Wanderers, 1873).

The 25-year-old Alabama native has overcome significant challenges this season, battling back from injury and reinserting himself in the Palace starting XI. He hasn't missed a match since being left on the bench for the Boxing Day draw with Bournemouth.

Richards brings a traditional defender's mentality to Palace's back three alongside Marc Guéhi and Maxence Lacroix: "I would rather have a shut-out than connect a pass the whole game. I like getting stuck in, I like getting physical, I like slide-tackles, I like headers, I like being what a defender is."

Palace face a formidable challenge against Manchester City, who are desperate to avoid their first trophyless season since 2016/17. While City are clear favorites, Palace can take confidence from their spirited 2-2 draw at Selhurst Park in December and their impressive 3-0 win over Aston Villa in the semi-finals. Manager Oliver Glasner believes his side is ready to upset the odds and claim the club's first major trophy in their history.