Chris Richards was stretchered off with a bleeding, stitched foot and is now a doubt for Crystal Palace’s Premier League clash with Tottenham. Punters may favour backing Tottenham to exploit Palace’s defensive disruption or consider markets like Over 2.5 goals or Tottenham win/draw double chance if Richards is ruled out — monitor the team sheet for late changes before placing bets.
Chris Richards stretchered off as Palace bow out of Carabao Cup
Chris Richards was forced off on a stretcher during Crystal Palace’s Carabao Cup quarter-final defeat to Arsenal after suffering a heavy contact to his foot. The United States international, an ever-present in Palace’s back three this season, required treatment when blood flowed from his foot and medics removed his boot to stem the bleeding. He was eventually stretchered off and replaced by Will Hughes as Palace lost on penalties following Maxence Lacroix’s sudden-death miss.
Manager reaction and immediate prognosis
Oliver Glasner confirmed Richards had been stamped on and required stitches. The head coach sounded cautiously optimistic but realistic about the defender’s availability, suggesting it was unlikely Richards would be passed fit for the upcoming Premier League meeting with Tottenham at Selhurst Park. Glasner added he hoped Richards might return by the Fulham fixture, stressing Palace’s small pool of available outfield players.
Eddie Nketiah and other squad absences
Eddie Nketiah was also withdrawn at half-time with a knock, but Glasner indicated the striker’s injury appeared minor and that he expected Nketiah to be available for Sunday’s league game. Palace still face longer-term absences with Chadi Riad, Daniel Muñoz, Daichi Kamada and Cheick Doucouré sidelined.
Selection dilemmas and tactical impact
Richards’ potential absence presents a clear selection headache for Glasner. Palace have relied on a three-man defence this season, and losing a consistent starter could force a reshuffle or the introduction of less experienced options, which may affect defensive cohesion and set-piece reliability.
Betting implications and what punters should watch
If Richards is ruled out, markets are likely to shift in Tottenham’s favour and live-match odds could shorten quickly. Punters should monitor the official team sheet before staking money; markets to consider include Tottenham win or double chance, and totals markets such as Over 2.5 goals if Palace field an inexperienced backline. Check late fitness updates for both Richards and Nketiah before placing bets.
Tottenham ‘looking at’ Omar Marmoush in stunning raid on Man City
Fixture context
Palace face a tight schedule coming out of a busy run of fixtures, immediately preparing for a London derby against Tottenham at Selhurst Park. The outcome of the injury assessments will be decisive for team selection and the balance of power in that crucial Premier League meeting.
Metro
