Adam Wharton has suggested Crystal Palace will focus on their UEFA Conference League final rather than becoming caught up in Arsenal’s Premier League title race.
Palace face Arsenal at Selhurst Park on the final day of the Premier League season, just three days before their Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano on May 27.
The match could have major consequences for Arsenal, who know that two wins from their final two league games will secure their first domestic title since 2004. But Wharton insists Palace are not thinking about whether they can stop the Gunners from lifting the trophy.
“We’re not deciding the title next week, there have been 37 games this season,” Wharton told reporters.
“We have another game a few days after. We’re not looking at trying to beat them so that they don’t win. That is none of our concern. We are focusing on ourselves and making sure we’re in the right position for the following Wednesday.”
Palace held by Brentford before final push
Wharton was speaking after Palace’s 2-2 draw with Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Ismaila Sarr gave Palace an early lead from the penalty spot, scoring his 21st goal of the season in all competitions. Brentford equalised when Jaydee Canvot’s attempted clearance from Yehor Yarmolyuk’s cross deflected into the net off Dango Ouattara.
Palace went back in front seven minutes after the restart when Wharton scored his first goal for the club in his 94th appearance. His effort slipped through Caoimhin Kelleher, giving Palace hope of an important win.
But Brentford responded late, with Ouattara scoring again two minutes from time to secure a draw and keep their own European hopes alive.
Glasner focused on Palace preparation
Palace manager Oliver Glasner echoed Wharton’s message and made it clear that the club will make decisions based on what is best for their own season.
The Eagles are managing fitness concerns over Maxence Lacroix, Chris Richards and Chadi Riad, which could influence how they approach the Arsenal game.
“We want to keep our standard high against Arsenal,” Glasner said. “We have to manage the minutes and this is how we will go into the last 10 days.”
“We just think what is best for us. We are not responsible for Arsenal or Manchester City.”
Glasner also stressed that the Arsenal match remains important because it is Palace’s final home game of the season and offers valuable preparation before the European final.
“It is the last game at Selhurst Park, so it is a big game for our fans and we need this game for top preparation for the final on the Wednesday,” he added.
For Palace, the next week could become one of the most significant in the club’s history. Arsenal may arrive with the title on the line, but Palace’s biggest focus is clear: being ready for Rayo Vallecano and a chance to win European silverware.
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