Crystal Palace looked like European regulars on Thursday as Oliver Glasner’s side sealed a straightforward 2-0 win over Dynamo Kyiv.
It was a controlled performance from the Eagles, who took 14 shots – seven of which were on target – and registered 54% of the possession.
The result saw Dean Henderson keep yet another clean sheet, his sixth in ten appearances so far this season, and Jean-Philippe Mateta hailed his Crystal Palace teammate after the win in Poland.
Dean Henderson labelled the best goalkeeper “in the world” by Jean-Philippe Mateta
Commenting on the England international’s Instagram post after the game, the Frenchman posted: “You (were) born ready broooo 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩 the best keeper in the world.”
Henderson only had to make one save against Dynamo Kyiv, but marshalled his area well with two high claims and showed great footwork by completing seven long-range passes, as Sofascore shows.
Mateta – who came off at the interval – makes a fairly outlandish claim when you consider the likes of Gianluigi Donnarumma and Thibaut Courtois exist, but as far as English goalkeepers go, there are arguably none better than the Crystal Palace No.1 at the moment.
Dean Henderson has turned himself into a Crystal Palace legend
There was plenty of criticism aimed towards Henderson when he arrived at Crystal Palace back in August 2023, following a £20m move from Manchester United.
Many Crystal Palace fans felt that money could have been better spent at a time where Sam Johnstone was impressing in between the sticks, but the 28-year-old has overseen a remarkable turnaround.
Most supporters would now consider Henderson to be one of the greatest goalkeepers in the club’s history, following his Man of the Match display against Manchester City in the FA Cup final, as well as his heroic performance in the FA Community Shield win over Liverpool.
The man born in Whitehaven has also forged a strong connection with the fanbase, even starting a chant during a pre-season game over the summer.
Hopefully, thigh issues that have plagued Henderson in the past do not return, and he can continue to build on his exquisite performances for the Eagles.
