Crystal Palace will miss the aerial dominance of Chris Richards in their London derby against Fulham after the defender was ruled out due to an injury accumulated from heavy minutes this season.
Crystal Palace will be without the services of Chris Richards for their upcoming clash against Spurs and Fulham following a significant injury setback.
The United States international has been a mainstay in Oliver Glasner’s three-at-the-back system, clocking 2,122 minutes across all competitions this season.
The club has confirmed that the defender will now “need to rest up before rushing back to proceedings,” leaving a void in a backline that has relied heavily on his consistency.
Statistically, Richards has been a standout performer for the Eagles, boasting a superior aerial presence compared to teammates Marc Guéhi and Maxence Lacroix.
Averaging 3.1 aerials won per game and an overall rating of 6.97, his physical dominance has been a key component of Palace’s defensive structure.
Glasner has previously praised the defender’s “strong aerial ability,” a trait that the south London club will sorely miss as they attempt to secure a vital win to close out 2025.
Despite the blow, those of a “Palace persuasion” remain hopeful that the injury is minor and that Richards will return to the grass shortly.
In his absence, Glasner must rely on Guéhi and Lacroix to maintain defensive stability against a dangerous Fulham attack.
The medical team is expected to monitor his recovery closely, as the club looks to enter the new year with a fully fit squad to climb the Premier League table.