Chris Richards’ Recovery Updates Following Injury

LONDON — United States defender Chris Richards has expressed optimism regarding his recovery, stating that it “won’t be long” until he is back on the pitch for Crystal Palace.

Richards sustained a significant cut to his right foot and was taken off on a stretcher during the second half of Palace’s match against Arsenal in the English League Cup quarterfinals on Tuesday.

In a message posted on his Instagram account on Wednesday, he thanked his supporters and reassured them of his swift return: “Thanks everybody for the messages, won’t be long til I’m back.”

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has not provided a specific timeline for Richards’ recovery. The team is set to face Tottenham in the Premier League on Sunday, followed by a match against Fulham on New Year’s Day.

Glasner commented on Richards’ injury, stating, “He got a knock on his foot, a stamp on his foot, and it had to be stitched. I don’t know how many stitches, but a few. The doctor told me it doesn’t look so bad. I’m always hopeful. We have to be hopeful. I don’t know if he will be OK for the Tottenham game, but I’m still hoping that he will be back against Fulham.”

In the recent match, Arsenal triumphed over Palace 8-7 in a penalty shootout after the game concluded with a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes.

At 25 years old, Richards has been a regular starter for the U.S. national team. He missed the 2022 World Cup due to a leg injury but is anticipated to play a significant role in the upcoming World Cup in 2026, which will be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The U.S. team is also monitoring the fitness of captain Tyler Adams, who recently tore his MCL during Bournemouth’s 4-4 draw with Manchester United on December 15. Adams is expected to be sidelined for two to three months, with hopes that he will be fit by the summer.