Chris Richards Eyes History as Crystal Palace Face Manchester City in FA Cup Final

Crystal Palace`s presence in the FA Cup final is somewhat unexpected. This Saturday, they face the formidable challenge of Manchester City with an opportunity to claim their first major trophy since winning the English second tier back in the 1993-94 season. At the start of the campaign, Palace was considered a potential dark horse for a European place, but a slow beginning under manager Oliver Glasner seemed to dampen those ambitions. However, an impressive and improbable cup run has now brought them to the brink of European qualification, despite their current 12th-place standing in the Premier League table.

A victory would secure Palace a coveted berth in the Europa League. A key figure in their pursuit of this goal will be American defender Chris Richards. Much like the team`s season, Richards himself had a difficult start, having to contend for his position after the summer recruitment saw two new central defenders arrive at Selhurst Park. The situation changed when Trevoh Chalobah was recalled by Chelsea from his loan, reopening a starting spot for Richards, who has since become a regular in Glasner`s three-man defense and has not looked back.

Richards has significantly improved as a player this season. He has added an offensive dimension from set pieces, contributing a goal and an assist across all competitions. His pace is crucial, allowing him to interchange effectively with fellow defenders Marc Guehi and Maxence Lacroix. While his talent has always been evident, Richards is now entering his prime and possesses the match experience needed to position himself effectively, utilizing his speed and aerial prowess to keep opposition forwards in check.

Facing potent attackers like Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush, Richards and the Palace defense will undoubtedly have their work cut out for them. However, their journey to the final, including wins against Aston Villa, Fulham, and Millwall, demonstrates their preparation for difficult tests. This is a capable Crystal Palace squad, and with players like Eberechi Eze gaining valuable experience at the highest international levels, they are unlikely to be overawed by the occasion at Wembley Stadium. They may be underdogs against City, but Pep Guardiola`s side has shown susceptibility to unexpected defeats this season, and in a single-match final, anything is possible.

For Chris Richards, winning the FA Cup would also mean becoming one of the most recent Americans to lift a major trophy while playing for a Premier League club. While numerous American players have featured in the Premier League over the years, the list of those who have won significant silverware during their time there is relatively short.

Technically, the last American to achieve this was Zack Steffen, who made appearances during Manchester City`s Premier League title-winning campaigns in 2020-21 and 2021-22. However, there is a noteworthy history of success for Americans in the Premier League. The group includes goalkeepers who played vital roles in their teams` triumphs, alongside a few outfield players. It`s worth noting that John Harkes did win the League Cup with Sheffield Wednesday, but this was achieved while the club was competing in the second division, not the Premier League.

Americans to Win Trophies with Premier League Teams

How to Watch the FA Cup Final, Odds

• Date: Saturday, May 17
• Time: 11:30 a.m. ET
• Location: Wembley Stadium — London
• Live stream: ESPN+
• Odds: Crystal Palace +320; Draw +270; Manchester City -130