Crystal Palace ‘genius’ with seven duel wins and 100% pass completion vs Wolves key to downing Strasbourg
Crystal Palace are looking to follow up their 2-0 win over Wolves with victory against Strasbourg in the Conference League on 27 November.
Yeremy Pino starred in Crystal Palace’s dominant result against Wolves on 22 November as they continue their excellent form in the Premier League.
Man United target Daniel Munoz was also on the scoresheet for the Eagles as they now turn their attention to Europe, once again in a busy winter schedule.
Amid the highs for Oliver Glasner was Adam Wharton, who the manager will be looking to again when the south London outfit visit Strasbourg in the Conference League.
Wharton on the money vs Wolves as European glory awaits
Following a composed set of performances for England in the international break, former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider that Liverpool remain interested in Wharton.
If the Reds weren’t already impressed by his stint with the Three Lions, Arne Slot would’ve been even more drawn to him after his stellar showing against the Wanderers.
The 21-year-old was magnetic in midfield, delivering two key passes as well as teeing up Pino for his delightful long-range curler.
His pass map, courtesy of Football Insider’s data partnership with Opta, depicts his effortless precision on the ball as he accrued an 85 per cent passing accuracy rate.
Adding to his all-round game, the number 20 also won four of his seven ground duels as well as winning 100 per cent of his tackles.
His two interceptions and five recoveries also reflect the Englishman’s superb reading of the game, an attribute that will be crucial if the Eagles want to beat Strasbourg.
Strasbourg set to be toughest challenge yet for Crystal Palace
Liam Rosenior’s side have enjoyed a steady start to the Ligue 1 season, winning seven of their 13 matches and sitting fifth in the French top-flight.
Given the array of young talent at the ex-Hull City boss’ disposal, with some hailing from Chelsea on loan, Glasner will have his trickiest test yet in the Conference League.
Even though the Eagles have a small squad, the Austrian will almost certainly have to go near full strength once again to try and secure another set of three points in Europe.
This means that a rest for Wharton may be unlikely, even with his recent niggling injuries, given his creative importance as the metronome of the Palace side.