Crystal Palace have been handed a major boost with Adam Wharton and Eddie Nketiah both returning to the squad for Saturday’s Premier League clash against West Ham United. Oliver Glasner confirmed the news in his pre-match press conference, easing concerns after recent injury setbacks.
Wharton, who had been sidelined with an adductor problem picked up in a 3-0 victory over Aston Villa, missed two matches and England duty. The 20-year-old midfielder is now fit to start, strengthening Palace’s options in the middle of the park.
Nketiah, meanwhile, is available far earlier than expected after a hamstring injury kept him out of pre-season. His sharp displays in training this week have impressed Glasner, who hinted he could feature off the bench against the Hammers.
“The positive news is that Adam Wharton and Eddie Nketiah are back in the squad tomorrow,” Glasner told reporters. “Adam is fit enough to start. Eddie missed all the pre-season, but he looked very good in training, so let’s see how the game is going. Those players looked very sharp, and credit goes to the medical staff for their quick recoveries.”
Benitez ruled out after training injury
There is, however, one fresh concern. Goalkeeper Walter Benitez, the penalty shootout hero in Palace’s midweek Carabao Cup win over Millwall, has suffered a dislocated pinky finger during training. The Argentine stopper will miss the trip to the London Stadium as well as next week’s fixture against Liverpool, though he is expected to return in time for the Conference League clash with Dynamo Kyiv on 2 October.
Glasner explained: “Walter Benitez was injured the day after the Millwall game. He dislocated his little finger, and he needs to rest now, so he will miss West Ham and Liverpool. We are hopeful he can come back after the Liverpool game.”
Ismaila Sarr nearing return
In more positive news, winger Ismaila Sarr is set to rejoin training on Sunday, giving him a chance to make the squad for Palace’s upcoming clash against Liverpool. His return would add further attacking threat to a squad starting to recover key players after a difficult spell with injuries.
“Everyone is coming back earlier than expected, so credit to the medical staff.” — Oliver Glasner
Analyst verdict: depth returning at crucial moment
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Palace’s timely injury boosts could be vital:
“Getting Adam Wharton and Eddie Nketiah back for a London derby is huge for Glasner. Wharton’s composure in midfield and Nketiah’s energy up front will give Palace much-needed balance. With Sarr also close and Benitez expected back soon, Palace’s squad depth looks set to improve just as they face a tough run of fixtures against West Ham, Liverpool and Dynamo Kyiv. These returns could be the difference between staying competitive in the league and building momentum in Europe.”
Key insights
- Adam Wharton fit to start vs West Ham after two weeks out with adductor injury.
- Eddie Nketiah available for selection after missing pre-season with a hamstring issue.
- Walter Benitez sidelined with a dislocated finger but expected back for 2 October.
- Ismaila Sarr to resume training on Sunday ahead of Liverpool clash.
- Oliver Glasner praised Palace’s medical staff for speeding up player returns.
What’s next for Crystal Palace?
Palace head into Saturday’s derby at the London Stadium boosted by key returns, with Wharton likely to slot straight into midfield. Glasner will weigh up whether Nketiah features from the bench or is held back for the visit to Liverpool.
With European fixtures on the horizon, ensuring players regain sharpness without overloading them will be crucial. If Palace can navigate the next fortnight while integrating returning players, they could emerge stronger both domestically and on the continental stage.
👉 With Wharton and Nketiah back, can Palace seize the derby momentum against West Ham?
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