Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has lauded the performance of young defender Jaydee Canvot following his full Premier League debut against Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday. The 19-year-old centre-back helped the Eagles secure a clean sheet in a game that ended in a goalless draw at Selhurst Park.
Canvot, a summer signing from Toulouse, was drafted into the starting XI to replace the injured Marc Guehi. Guehi suffered a painful bruised bone in his foot during Crystal Palace's Conference League win over AZ Alkmaar on Thursday. The injury will also keep Guehi out of the upcoming international matches for England against Serbia and Albania. Glasner expressed hope that the 25-year-old Guehi would recover in time for club fixtures to resume in two weeks.
Glasner conveyed his confidence in Canvot and the entire squad. "We trust every player in our squad," he stated. "Jaydee replaced him, and I think he had a very good game". He also acknowledged the intense nature of the match against Brighton, recognizing their attacking pace and ultimately deeming the result fair.
Prior to this Premier League debut, Canvot’s appearances for Crystal Palace were limited to cup competitions. His performance had been a mixed bag. Notably, he was at fault for a goal in Palace's home defeat to AEK Larnaca in the Conference League. However, he also delivered an impressive showing in the 3-0 Carabao Cup victory over Liverpool at Anfield.
Glasner highlighted Canvot's excellent performance against Liverpool, stating, "He had an excellent game at Liverpool". He further elaborated on Canvot's qualities, "I see him in training, I know what he can do. He has pace, he's tall. We have to work with his heading. He's comfortable in the build-up".
Glasner emphasized the club's long-term vision for Canvot. "That's why we signed him. We're giving him time, step by step, helping him become the best Jaydee he can," he explained. He further added, "When you are 19 and you get your debut in the Premier League, you should be delighted. His dream has come true and that's what he showed".
Reflecting on Guehi's injury, Glasner confirmed the defender was using crutches and had experienced considerable pain, preventing him from sleeping. Initial concerns of a fracture were allayed, but the bruised bone will require a period of recovery.
Despite Canvot's impressive debut against Brighton, it is important to note an error against AEK Larnaca proved costly. The 19-year-old received a pass from Dean Henderson but, pressured by two attackers, played a blind pass across the goal, which led to AEK Larnaca's goal. Glasner consoled Canvot, framing the mistake as a part of his development. Glasner said that substituting Canvot had nothing to do with the mistake, but rather a change in shape to get an extra attacker on the pitch. Glasner added that nobody is blaming Canvot for the mistake, and that every player with a big career has made mistakes that led to a goal.
