Oliver Glasner accused the Palace hierarchy of failing to properly strengthen his squad ahead of their maiden European campaign after crashing to defeat against Manchester United.
And the Austrian’s obvious irritation heightens the likelihood of him departing the FA Cup holders in the summer when his contract runs out. The Eagles became the first Premier League club to benefit from the new “double-touch” penalty regulation when Jean Philippe-Mateta was allowed to retake and convert a second spot kick.
But Glasner’s worn-out team, who were beaten in the UEFA Conference League at Strasbourg on Thursday night, conceded two dead-ball goals in the second period. Palace have not managed to win any of their four Premier League fixtures following UEFA Conference League group-stage matches this season.
And Ismaila Sarr, who is heading out with Senegal for the African Cup of Nations later this month (Dec), was withdrawn with a “swollen ankle”.
Asked if the FA Cup holders are suffering due to a lack of squad depth, Glasner replied: “Yes, I think it’s just the issue of I never talked about it to be honest. And today it’s just time because I want to protect the players because I know how hard they are working and giving everything. It was our 22nd game.
“They were physically better. It’s clearly our fault. We missed to strengthen the depth of the squad in the summer and we knew the schedule. We knew that Ismaila would go to the Afcon but nothing happened. It’s the first time in your history that you play European football.
“So let’s invest instead of saving. We saved and that’s what we’re facing. No blame for the players because they gave everything, they leave their hearts on the pitch. But their legs don’t do what your head wants them to do.
Glasner added: “I would have wished for a little bit more backing, yes. I think in January we just correct what we failed to do in the summer. By January, we have played 60/65% of the season. Let’s see.”
Mateta initially scored with his first penalty at Selhurst Park but a VAR check spotted his standing foot also made contact with the ball. Previously, the goal would have been chalked off.
This happened in a tense Champions League shootout between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid in March when ex-Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez slipped and touched the ball twice while scoring past former Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois. The rule was updated this season to permit a re-take for an accidental double touch if the taker scores.
Asked about the rule tweak, Glasner said: “I had no idea. But the fourth official told us. So we were lucky today. Do I think it is a good rule change? I don’t care, honestly.”