Chilwell signing ‘gives Glasner options’

Ben Chilwell’s signing on loan from Chelsea gives Crystal Palace manager some much-needed options down the left side of his team despite the lack of a centre-back in the squad.

Palace are down to the bare bones at centre-back with only Marc Guehi, Chris Richards and Maxence Lacroix fit, after Trevoh Chalobah was recalled by Chelsea and Chadi Riad was ruled out for the season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

In Chilwell’s announcement release by the club, it is referenced that Chilwell can play in many positions on the left of defence.

The 28-year-old has spoken himself how he is familiar with playing as a wing-back during his time at Chelsea, most notably in the Blues’ 2021 Champions League victory.

Chilwell is more naturally inclined to attack than current left wing-back Tyrick Mitchell.

But also, his arrival means that either he or Mitchell or Chilwell could play as left centre-back to give natural balance to the backline.

However, Palace’s back three is one of the strongest parts of their team so a change may seem strange at the moment, but having the option to do it will be a big bonus for Glasner.