Crystal Palace boss explains Jesurun Rak-Sakyi matchday squad absence

Oliver Glasner says the form and current depth of his Crystal Palace attacking players is why Jesurun Rak-Sakyi has yet to make a matchday squad since returning from injury.

The 21-year-old winger returned to first-team training at the same point as Michael Olise, who returned for a cameo in the 4-2 defeat at home to Manchester City, but is yet to make the 20-player squad for a Premier League outing.

Ex-Charlton loanee Rak-Sakyi made eight appearances in all competitions under Roy Hodgson before he picked up a hamstring injury in training prior to the 2-0 win at Burnley in November.

He was nearing a return in early February but suffered a separate hamstring issue in the first half of a U21 match for Darren Powell’s side against Ipswich.

Rak-Sakyi played the first half for the U21s in their 4-2 Premier League International Cup win over Everton on April 16.

“He’s working hard and doing well in training,” said Glasner.

“The situation is that we all agree with Eze, Olise and Mateta, it’s three amazing players in a really good shape.

“Ebs scores goals. JP scores goals. Michael scores goals and gets assists.

“With Jeffrey Schlupp, Jordan Ayew and Odsonne Edouard, we have three players who could start every game because they also deserve it with their quality and talent.

“It’s maybe now a tough moment for Jes. He’s coming back after two months from injury and now has six players here who are in fantastic shape and fit for a long time.

“It makes it hard for him now. He won’t be in the squad for tomorrow, but he’s really working hard to get his minutes.

“Every player has to show that they are ready. He does it and gives his best, but the situation now is the best situation for any manager – when all your players are fit and in a good shape.”

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