Henderson calls for ‘unity’ as fractious Palace face crucial clash with Zrinjski

Guardian Sport

by Ed Aarons

February 26, 2026

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Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson is calling for unity as the team faces a critical match against Zrinjski Mostar in the Conference League playoff. Once a cult hero in south London after saving crucial penalties in key matches, Henderson finds himself at the center of a fractured squad and fanbase. The team’s recent struggles under manager Oliver Glasner have sparked outrage among supporters, with many demanding his dismissal following another lackluster performance in their 1-1 draw against Zrinjski Mostar. Henderson’s rise to prominence began last season when he saved a penalty in Palace’s FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. His popularity surged further after he joined fans at a local pub to celebrate the club’s penalty shootout win over Liverpool in the Community Shield. However, the mood has since turned sour at Selhurst Park. The team’s poor form, including a surprising defeat by non-league Macclesfield and an unconvincing draw against Zrinjski Mostar, has left fans frustrated. Henderson, who was named captain after Guéhi’s transfer to Manchester City in January, is now in a unique position to influence the narrative and bring stability to the team. The situation at Crystal Palace highlights the challenges of maintaining consistency in professional sports. Henderson’s efforts to unite his teammates and supporters are crucial as they prepare for their next match. While the immediate focus remains on securing a playoff victory, the broader implications of this turmoil could shape the club’s future. Fans will be watching closely to see if Henderson can rally his team and扭转 the tide before it’s too late. This story matters to sports fans because it underscores the delicate balance between leadership, performance, and fan expectations. Henderson’s journey from hero to potential savior in a time of crisis offers insight into how individual actions can impact a team’s dynamics. As Palace fights for their playoff hopes, the outcome could determine not only their short-term success but also

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/26/2026