At a Glance
- Glasner hints at Mateta and Strand Larsen plan
- The forward duo both played vs Larnaca
- Palace face Leeds on Sunday
Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner has suggested Jean-Philippe Mateta and Jorgen Strand Larsen could partner one another in the near future. The two towering centre-forwards are currently competing for the number nine berth in the Eagles’ team.
Strand Larsen became Palace’s club-record signing in January when he arrived from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £48m. The Norwegian was supposed to be Mateta’s replacement, but the French striker failed a medical ahead of a proposed £30m move to AC Milan.
That means Glasner now has both frontmen in his squad as his side enters the final stretch of the season. Mateta returned to action last night in a 0-0 draw against AEK Larnaca in the first leg of the Europa Conference League Round of 16.
Glasner presents Mateta and Strand Larsen plan
Mateta came on for Strand Larsen in the 78th minute and received a mixed response from fans at Selhurst Park. He made his first appearance since late January amid a knee injury, which prevented him from moving to Milan.
Glasner was asked about the possibility of seeing him line up alongside the club’s record signing. The Austrian responded (via the club’s website):
“Yes, we discussed it on the bench with my assistants. We’ve trained them together. In the first leg, it’s not about going all in. But having two tall strikers—both strongest in the box—is a good option.”
| JP vs JSL (Premier League 25-26) | Jean-Philippe Mateta | Jorgen Strand Larsen |
|---|---|---|
| Appearances | 23 | 27 |
| Minutes Played | 1,914 | 1,814 |
| Goals | 8 | 4 |
| Assists | 0 | 1 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 11.97 | 4.25 |
| Shots on Target | 25 | 12 |
| Aerial Duels Won | 57 | 61 |
There is a chance that Glasner puts that plan into practice when Palace face Leeds United on Sunday (March 15th). But it can be assumed that only one of them will start that game to ensure their fitness is prioritised ahead of the second leg against Larnaca next Thursday (March 19th).
An interesting idea
Strand Larsen has made a promising start to life at Selhurst Park, finding the back of the net three times in eight outings. He has led the line well, using his six-foot-four-inch frame effectively.
The 26-year-old moved to South London expecting not to face competition from Mateta. The 28-year-old has been the focal point of Glasner’s attack ever since the Austrian coach arrived in early 2024.
Glasner now has two of the Premier League’s toughest forwards in his possession to tackle the remainder of the season. Using both of them as a front two could be the way to go in games where the Eagles are searching for an equaliser or a winner.
