Oliver Glasner has set a clear rule before Crystal Palace's Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano: only players who are 100% fit will start. Adam Wharton and Chris Richards are both still doubts because of ankle problems, and the final call may not come until after another check in the morning.

Glasner said the medical department would work late into the night, then he would speak to the players again the next day. His line was blunt enough. “We will nominate the starting XI which is 100% fit. If the player does not feel 100% or I have a bit of concern then they don't start.”

Why Glasner is drawing such a hard line

The selection message is more important than usual because both players matter to Palace's European run. Wharton has made 15 Conference League appearances and 51 appearances across all competitions this year, while Richards has played 13 times in the competition. Those are not fringe numbers, so any late decision on either man has real weight.

Glasner backed that up with another warning: “If I have a bit of concern, they won't start but it's positive they could train without big issues.” He also said, “In the end, I will only select players I believe to be 100% fit.” That leaves little room for reputation or sentiment, even with a final in front of Crystal Palace.

What else is hanging over the final

The game is also Glasner's last in charge of Crystal Palace, which gives the night extra edge without changing his selection logic. He said Palace had already secured a Community Shield and an FA Cup during his spell, and he described a final that could finish the season properly after all the work done by the players, staff and people around the club.

Preparation has been tidy rather than frantic. Glasner said Palace started tactical meetings last week and showed the players videos of Rayo Vallecano in different shapes, while also admitting he enjoyed the lighter moments in camp, including the 30 minutes of head tennis. That mood may help, but the team sheet will still come down to one basic question: who is fit enough to start against Rayo Vallecano.

Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 4 outlets. How we work →