Crystal Palace manager, Oliver Glasner, has moved to calm speculation surrounding the future of Nigerian midfielder Christantus Uche after the player publicly suggested that the Austrian coach “doesn’t like me.”
Uche’s comments sparked debate among Palace supporters after another difficult period on the sidelines, with the midfielder struggling to establish himself in the first team since arriving at Selhurst Park.
The 21-year-old has managed only two starts this season and has largely been restricted to substitute appearances and matchday squad omissions.
Competition for places in Palace’s midfield and attack intensified during the January transfer window following the arrivals of Brennan Johnson and Jørgen Strand Larsen, further limiting Uche’s chances of regular football.
Speaking during his pre-match media briefing, Glasner dismissed claims of any personal issue with the Nigerian, explaining that squad registration rules played a major role in the player’s reduced involvement, particularly in European competition.
“He wasn’t pleased with it, but I had to take a decision due to the rules,” Glasner said.
“From this day he felt like I don’t like him. It’s nothing personal. I like him as a person, but again I had to take a decision.”
The former Eintracht Frankfurt coach also defended his handling of the situation, insisting that internal discussions with players are kept private rather than addressed through the media.
“I’m always talking to the players directly, not over the media. This is what everyone deserves,” he said.
Uche’s future at Crystal Palace now remains uncertain ahead of the summer transfer window, with the midfielder expected to seek more regular playing time after a challenging spell in South London.
