- Crystal Palace star Chris Richards hailed
- James Tomkins thinks he goes under the radar
- American defender enjoying superb season
Former Crystal Palace hero James Tomkins has hailed Chris Richards and feels he deserves more recognition. The American defender has been a mainstay in Oliver Glasner’s defence this season.
Richards arrived at Selhurst Park from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2022 for £8.5m. He has since become one of the first names on Glasner’s teamsheet and was part of last season’s FA Cup triumph.
The 26-year-old is a reliable presence at the back, and his importance is sometimes overlooked. He is now one of the leaders in the dressing room, and his performances were highlighted by Tomkins.
Tomkins on ‘Underestimated’ Richards
Tomkins spoke highly of Richards and applauded his influence on Glasner’s side. He said on TNT Sports:
“I think he’s gone under the radar a little bit, Chris Richards. I think he’s been very consistent in the last couple of seasons, ever since he joined the club, to be honest. I think he’s aggressive and plays on the front foot. He loves a challenge, he’s not bad with the ball at his feet aswell, I think he’s a bit underestimated.”
Richards has partnered with Maxence Lacroix at the back for most of his spell at Selhurst Park. They lost their captain, Marc Guehi, when the English defender joined Manchester City in a £20m deal.
Tomkins touched on this:
“I think he’s obviously had a great partnership with Lacroix at the back, obviously with Marc gone, I think to see if Jaydee (Canvot) can step into that third spot and make it a more consistent back three will be interesting. Chris’ performances have been very consistent over the last few years.”
Richards makes his 112th appearance as a Palace player against Fiorentina tonight. He was superb in the Round of 16 win over AEK Larnaca, and Glasner will be hoping for a similar showing across both legs of the quarter-final tie.
Palace’s Perfect Defence
A Guehi departure felt inevitable after he lifted the FA Cup at Wembley last season. That’s why Palace moved for Canvot, ensuring they were covered should their skipper indeed head to the exit door.
The English centre-back stayed put when the summer transfer window closed after failing to secure a deadline day move to Liverpool. But with his contract up at the end of the season, a January sale was expected.
City swooped and got themselves one of the best defenders in the league. The response from the media was that Palace had to target a replacement this summer but that might not be the case.
Canvot has been sensational since arriving from Toulouse, and he is proving a worthy heir to Guehi. Glasner’s defence has been solid even after losing their captain, and Richards and Lacroix have been consistent.
