Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed that key players Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi will both be in the starting lineup for Thursday night's crucial Conference League play-off first leg against Fredrikstad. This decision comes amidst intense transfer speculation surrounding both players, with Eze linked to Tottenham and Arsenal, and Guehi attracting interest from Liverpool.

Glasner addressed the media on Wednesday, expressing his surprise at the focus on Eze and Guehi's potential departures, especially after their strong performances in the recent draw against Chelsea. He emphasized that both players are committed to the team and are expected to give 100% while under contract. "It's always the right of a club and the duty of a player to give 100 per cent as long as he is under contract," Glasner stated.

The future of both players has been a hot topic throughout the summer transfer window. Eze, who has a contract with Palace until 2027, had a reported £68 million release clause that expired last Friday. While Tottenham appeared to be in pole position to sign him, Arsenal have reportedly reignited their interest following an injury to Kai Havertz. According to reports, Eze prefers a move to Arsenal, as he supported the club as a boy and played for their academy until he was 13.

Guehi, the Crystal Palace captain, has a contract that runs until next summer, and Liverpool are keen to secure his services. Palace are reportedly holding out for a valuation of £40 million for the center-back. Glasner acknowledged the rumors but remained confident in Guehi's commitment. "They are committed to the team, they have a contract here, they played a crucial part that we could be so successful, and they will play a crucial part as long as they are here," he said.

Goalkeeper Dean Henderson echoed Glasner's sentiments, praising Eze and Guehi's professionalism and dedication to the team. Glasner added, "If they do leave, they'll want to be remembered as players who always gave 100% for Crystal Palace".

Crystal Palace's participation in the Conference League play-off comes after their appeal to be reinstated into the Europa League was rejected by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The club was initially demoted to the Conference League due to a breach of UEFA's multi-club ownership regulations. Despite this setback, Glasner is focused on the upcoming tie against Fredrikstad and believes his team can be successful.

The two-legged play-off against the Norwegian side is scheduled for August 21 and 28, with a Premier League match against Nottingham Forest in between. As a result, Palace's Matchweek 3 fixture against Aston Villa has been moved to Sunday, August 31.

Glasner's decision to start Eze and Guehi in the face of transfer speculation demonstrates his faith in their professionalism and commitment to Crystal Palace. Whether both players will remain at Selhurst Park beyond the summer transfer window remains to be seen, but for now, they are set to play a crucial role in the club's quest for European success.