Crystal Palace's defensive concerns appear resolved as Chris Richards and Adam Wharton are set to feature in tonight's Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano. The USA international, carrying an ankle injury suffered against Brentford, participated fully in training yesterday after manager Oliver Glasner rated his chances at "50/50" last week. Richards will likely partner Maxence Lacroix and Jaydee Canvot at the heart of the Palace backline.

Midfielder Wharton, also an injury doubt after being withdrawn during Sunday's match against Arsenal, completed a full training session yesterday. His availability provides Glasner with more options in the center of midfield for Palace's historic 60th match of their longest season ever. The young duo's potential return gives the Eagles a much-needed boost for their biggest European final appearance.

The Palace squad enters tonight's showdown with significant defensive stability after facing uncertainty about both central defenders' availability. With both Wharton and Richards cleared to start, Crystal Palace can now approach the Conference League final with their strongest possible XI, aiming to secure the club's first major European trophy in their historic campaign.