Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has publicly admitted a significant error in judgement, confessing he should have demanded more new players during the summer transfer window. The Austrian's revelation comes as the South London club finalises a record-breaking £35 million deal to sign Wales forward Brennan Johnson from Tottenham Hotspur.
Glasner's Honest Admission on Squad Depth
Speaking candidly, Glasner pointed to the relentless physical demands of English football as the core reason for his regret. He acknowledged failing to fully account for the "intensity" of the Premier League, where the absence of a winter break leads to a higher rate of injuries. "I think I should have had a better evaluation of the whole situation that I had in the summer," Glasner stated, looking in the mirror at his own role.
He elaborated that the sheer force of top-flight duels surpasses that of any other league he has experienced. This, combined with unforeseen fitness issues, has left his squad stretched thin. Key players like Will Hughes, Chris Richards, Daniel Munoz, Daichi Kamada, and Eddie Nketiah are currently sidelined, while Ismaila Sarr is away at the African Cup of Nations.
Record Signing Arrives to Bolster Depleted Attack
The club's response to this crisis is the imminent arrival of Brennan Johnson for a fee that smashes Palace's previous transfer record. The 24-year-old's signing is seen as crucial for bolstering the Eagles' attacking options, especially after the summer sale of Eberechi Eze to Arsenal.
However, the deal was not completed in time for Johnson to feature in Palace's upcoming Premier League fixture against Newcastle United on Sunday. The team travels to St. James' Park, where they suffered a 5-0 defeat last season, hoping to end a run of six consecutive matches without a victory.
Looking Ahead and Learning Lessons
Glasner, who vented frustration over a lack of investment after a November defeat to Manchester United, now strikes a more reflective tone. "There is nobody to blame," he said, taking personal responsibility. He believes that had he anticipated the injury toll, he would have been "harsher on getting one or two more players in" during the previous window.
With the January window now open and the £35 million capture of Johnson secured, Palace are acting to rectify the situation. The manager's public mea culpa underscores the immense physical challenge of the Premier League and sets the stage for a crucial second half of the season as the FA Cup holders also contend with UEFA Conference League football.
