Crystal Palace has been the breeding ground for many talents in recent years. The likes of Eberechi Eze, Michael Olise, Marc Guehi and Cheick Doucoure have all made their names at the south London club, following the footsteps of the iconic Wilfried Zaha.
Dean Henderson is now slowly becoming a fan favourite at Selhurst Park. After barely getting opportunities to establish himself as the first-choice goalkeeper at Manchester United, thanks largely to the presence of the legendary David de Gea, the Englishman decided to leave them permanently and join Crystal Palace in the summer of 2023.
Due to an injury-hit debut season, the €12m-rated 27-year-old could only muster 18 Premier League appearances for the Eagles. This campaign appears to be different as Dean Henderson has started all seven Premier League games for Oliver Glasner’s side thus far.
Despite Palace struggling to get results and currently lying in the relegation zone, Henderson has arguably been his side’s best player. Interestingly, he produced a Man of the Match performance against Man United at Selhurst Park last month, making a catalogue of top saves to help his side earn a point.
On the back of his rich vein of form, he was called up to the England squad for the UEFA Nations League games. The Cumbria-born goalkeeper made his second appearance for England against Finland, and, having only appeared as a substitute in the past, it was his first start for the national side.
Palace boss Oliver Glasner was personally delighted for Henderson after he earned his first start for the Three Lions against Finland in midweek. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, he praised the English shot-stopper for his ‘ambition’ and revealed that he is ‘really lucky to have him’ at the club.
“Dean Henderson had a great International break, and he started for England. It was his first start for England, and I was really delighted for him. He’s had great games and performances for us, and I’m really happy that he got the start for England. What impresses me most about him is his ambition. Whether it’s a training session of four against four or 11 against 11, he always wants to win. He pushes his teammates, and he’s just a great goalkeeper and a great person. I’m really lucky to have him at Crystal Palace.”
These words and sentiments not only underline Glasner’s confidence in Henderson’s ability but also mirror the growing reputation of the goalkeeper in the Premier League. All in all, it is without doubt that Henderson will have to constantly keep producing the goods if the Eagles are to maintain their Premier League status this season.
