Chris Richards and Crystal Palace’s Historic FA Cup Final Bid

Crystal Palace finds itself in an unexpected FA Cup final, presenting a remarkable opportunity to overcome Manchester City and secure their first major trophy since triumphing in the English second division during the 1993-94 season. At the start of the current campaign, Palace was seen as a potential dark horse for a European spot, but hopes dwindled following a sluggish start under Oliver Glasner. An improbable run in the cup competition has now placed them on the verge of Europa League qualification, despite their mid-table position in the league (12th).

A victory would guarantee Palace a place in the Europa League, and a key player in achieving this goal is Chris Richards. Similar to the team`s trajectory, the American defender experienced a challenging beginning to the season, needing to earn his place in the starting lineup after new center-backs were signed in the summer. However, Trevoh Chalobah`s return to Chelsea from loan created an opening, allowing Richards to become a regular starter in Glasner`s back three. Since then, he has solidified his position and performed consistently.

Richards has shown significant improvement this season, contributing offensively from set pieces with a goal and an assist across all competitions. His pace has also been crucial, enabling fluid interchangeability with defensive partners like Marc Guehi and Maxence Lacroix. While always possessing talent, Richards is now entering his prime and has accumulated valuable match experience. This allows him to leverage his speed and aerial ability effectively to contain opposing attackers and avoid being caught out of position.

Facing a formidable attack featuring players like Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush, Richards and the Palace defense will undoubtedly be tested. However, having navigated past tough opponents like Aston Villa, Fulham, and Millwall in earlier rounds, they have demonstrated their readiness for challenging encounters. This Crystal Palace squad is talented, and with players such as Eberechi Eze gaining experience at the highest international level, they are unlikely to be intimidated by the grand stage at Wembley. Although they are considered underdogs against City, Pep Guardiola`s side has shown susceptibility to surprising defeats this season, and in the context of a one-off final, any outcome is possible.

For Chris Richards, the FA Cup final also represents a chance to join an exclusive group: Americans who have won a major trophy while playing for a Premier League team. While American players have featured in the Premier League over the years, the list of those who have lifted significant silverware is relatively short.

The most recent American to achieve this was technically Zack Steffen, who made appearances for Manchester City during their Premier League title wins in 2020-21 and 2021-22. However, there is a notable history of American success in the Premier League era, from goalkeepers leading their teams to cup glory to a few successful outfield players. John Harkes is worth mentioning for winning the League Cup with Sheffield Wednesday, though they were in the second division at the time.

Americans to Win Trophies with Premier League Teams