Oliver Glasner has firmly dismissed suggestions that Marc Guehi ignored him after Crystal Palace's goalless draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The incident occurred as both teams walked off the pitch, with Glasner calling out to Guehi who briefly glanced back but continued towards the tunnel without stopping.
The exchange sparked fresh speculation about Guehi's future amid Liverpool's ongoing pursuit of the defender before the transfer window closes. However, Glasner has moved to reframe the incident entirely, insisting it demonstrated positive qualities rather than any snub.
Manager's robust defence
"I've seen so much nonsense written about this," Glasner said when asked about the incident on Wednesday. "Marc was upset that he didn't win the game and I loved this. It's the best sign that he could show of how ambitious we are."
The Palace manager's comments turn what appeared to be a moment of tension into evidence of Guehi's commitment and competitive spirit. According to The Standard, teammate Dean Henderson praised both Guehi and Eberechi Eze as "phenomenal" in the Chelsea game and described them as committed professionals despite transfer speculation.
Professional commitment emphasised
Glasner confirmed that both Guehi and Eze will start for Palace's Conference League play-off clash against Fredrikstad on Thursday night. The manager stressed their unwavering professionalism despite ongoing transfer interest.
"The player gives 100 per cent because he is under contract. We don't have to say thank you every day, he is getting a few pounds every week," Glasner explained. "Many of you were surprised he and Marc started against Chelsea, most of you will be surprised that they will start again tomorrow, but they are committed to the team."
Transfer speculation intensifies
Liverpool have made a move to sign the 25-year-old defender before the summer window closes. According to the Liverpool Echo, Sean Dyche suggests Palace may have backtracked on a gentleman's agreement to allow Guehi to leave.
Glasner emphasised that players will maintain their standards regardless of transfer speculation. "They will play a crucial part as long as they are here they are committed to the team. If they leave, they want to leave as the guys who gave 100 per cent to Crystal Palace."
The Standard reports that Palace's frustration was heightened by VAR ruling out Eze's first-half free-kick against Chelsea, contributing to the post-match emotions that Glasner has now reframed as positive ambition.
Sources used: "PA Media", "The Standard", "Liverpool Echo" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
