Palace lifted the FA Cup last season and followed it up by winning the Community Shield – how does it feel to finally see your club bringing home silverware? Liam: Honestly, it still feels surreal. I never thought I’d see Palace lift a major trophy in my lifetime, let alone two in the space of a few months. That FA Cup final was magical, and then to back it up by beating Liverpool in the Community Shield – it’s changed the whole perception of the club.
Did you ever think you’d see Palace not just winning trophies, but doing it with such style under Oliver Glasner? Liam: Not a chance. We’ve had some good managers, but Glasner has transformed us completely. The football is positive, attacking, and fearless, and it’s finally paying off. Last season’s FA Cup run summed it up: we didn’t just get lucky, we outplayed teams, proper footballing sides, and beat them on merit.
How has last season’s success changed your expectations for this year? Liam: Massively. Before, I’d have bitten your hand off for finishing 12th and a nice little cup run. Now, after what Glasner’s done, my expectations have shifted. I think this squad should be pushing for Europe, top seven isn’t unrealistic at all. We’re climbing the table, playing good football, and there’s a real sense of momentum.
The Heartbreak of Eze and the Guéhi Transfer Drama
Eberechi Eze’s departure from Palace was a big talking point this summer. How much of a blow was it to lose him, and do you think the club handled his exit well? Liam: Losing Eze was heartbreaking, no two ways about it. He was the face of the FA Cup win, the player who made us believe we could compete with the big boys. But the club’s hands were tied once his release clause was triggered. I just wish we’d had his replacement lined up sooner.
On the flip side, you’ve kept hold of Marc Guéhi despite plenty of interest. How important is he to this team, and were you worried he might leave? Liam: Keeping Guéhi was massive. He’s the leader at the back, our captain, and the heartbeat of the defence. I was absolutely convinced he was off when the Liverpool deal looked done and he even completed his medical. Then, at the last minute, it collapsed because West Ham hijacked the deal for our planned replacement. I can’t imagine how frustrated Guéhi must’ve felt, thinking he was making a huge career step and then ending up back where he started.
Squad Strength, Consistency, and the New Selhurst Atmosphere
Palace have added some exciting young talent alongside proven names. Do you feel the squad is now the strongest it’s ever been in the Premier League era? Liam: Absolutely. Between the cup-winning core, Glasner’s system, and the youth we’ve added, this is without doubt the most balanced and talented squad I’ve seen at Palace in my lifetime. Even with Eze gone, we’ve recruited cleverly, and you can see the potential throughout the side.
Which player has impressed you most so far this season, and do you think anyone is ready to step up and fill Eze’s boots creatively? Liam: We’ve seen highlights from new signing Jaydee Canvot, who looks like he could develop into something special. It won’t be easy replacing Eze’s goals and assists, but Glasner’s made us less reliant on one player, and you can see different people stepping up each week.
Last season’s cup runs showed Palace can compete with the best. Do you believe this squad can sustain that form across a full Premier League campaign? Liam: I really do. Last year, we showed we could go toe-to-toe with the top six and come out on top. The difference this season is consistency. The mentality shift is clear: we don’t approach games against big teams with fear anymore. And when you combine that belief with Glasner’s tactical nous, there’s no reason we can’t maintain this form and challenge for Europe.
How has the atmosphere at Selhurst Park changed since the FA Cup win? Does it feel like the start of a new era for Palace? Liam: Selhurst has always been special, but now it’s on another level. Every home game feels like a celebration, and there’s a sense of pride in the stands that wasn’t there before. The Community Shield win only added to it; you can tell the fans believe we’re part of something bigger now.
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