Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed a major setback ahead of his side's Premier League encounter with title-chasing Arsenal, revealing that star playmaker Eberechi Eze will be unavailable due to injury.
The attacking midfielder, who has been in scintillating form this season, sustained the problem during Palace's recent match and will not feature in the crucial fixture at the Emirates Stadium.
Glasner's Tactical Dilemma
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Glasner expressed his disappointment at losing his key creative force. "Eberechi will not be available for the Arsenal game," the Austrian manager stated bluntly. "It's a big blow for us because he's a player who can make the difference in any match."
The absence of Eze presents Glasner with a significant tactical challenge as he prepares to face Mikel Arteta's high-flying Gunners. Eze's ability to unlock defences with his dribbling and vision has been instrumental to Palace's attacking play throughout the season.
European Ambitions Still Alive
Despite this setback, Glasner remains optimistic about Palace's chances of securing European football next season. The Eagles still have a mathematical possibility of qualifying for the Europa Conference League, though their path has become considerably more difficult.
"Our focus remains on finishing the season strongly," Glasner emphasised. "While European qualification is still possible, we must take each game as it comes and adapt to situations like this."
Looking Beyond the Arsenal Clash
The manager confirmed that Eze's injury is not expected to be long-term, offering some reassurance to Palace supporters concerned about losing their talisman for the remainder of the campaign.
Glasner will need to find creative solutions within his squad to compensate for Eze's absence, potentially giving opportunities to other attacking players to step up and make their mark in this challenging fixture.
As Palace prepare to face an Arsenal side desperate to maintain their title challenge, all eyes will be on how Glasner reorganises his team without their influential number 10.
