Oliver Glasner has been speaking about his early impressions of Matheus Franca and Naouirou Ahamada at Crystal Palace.
The 49-year-old made the comments when chatting to the South London Press.
So, what did Oliver Glasner say about Crystal Palace duo Naouirou Ahamada and Matheus Franca? Let’s take a look…
Oliver Glasner praises Matheus Franca and Naouirou Ahamada
Well, Roy Hodgson was often critical of the young talents at Crystal Palace.
The 76-year-old memorably took aim at Ahamada, Franca and Jesurun Rak-Sakyi after a 2-1 defeat to Tottenham back in October, which drew criticism from pundits such as Gabriel Agbonlahor.
However – in refreshing contrast – Glasner has spoken highly of the youngsters at Selhurst Park.
Discussing Franca and Ahamada in particular, the Austrian said: “I spoke with both of them, and we support them, just like any other player.
“There has been a very good first impression from both, but also from all the other players. It’s what I like – showing your ability and showing your strengths. They (Ahamada and Franca) did it.
“They have good chances to get minutes every game if they continue training the way that have.”
Now, that should be music to the ears of every Crystal Palace fan.
Crystal Palace fans should be overjoyed
By the sounds of it, starting roles will have to be earned under Glasner, and anybody is in with a chance of playing – as opposed to Hodgson’s rigid lineups.
No matter how poorly the likes of Jeffrey Schlupp or Will Hughes performed, they would continue to start.
Hodgson oversaw just two wins in 16 outings before his departure, but despite that, the starting XI mostly remained the same, which was truly baffling to witness on a weekly basis.
At least now – with Glasner at the helm – it seems as if everybody has a blank slate to impress, with starts being handed out on merit rather than reputation.
