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Midfielder Adam Wharton has praised Oliver Glasner as one of Crystal Palace’s greatest-ever managers after the Austrian guided the club to a historic UEFA Conference League triumph in Leipzig. However, Wharton revealed he might not be able to fully take part in the post-match celebrations.

Under Glasner’s leadership, Palace have now secured all three major trophies in their history — the FA Cup and Community Shield last season, followed by their first-ever European title this year. The final in Leipzig marked Glasner’s last game in charge, as he is set to depart the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.

Speaking after Palace’s victory over Rayo Vallecano, Wharton couldn’t hide his admiration for Glasner’s impact. “It was his last match as Palace manager, and the difference he’s made in two and a half years is unbelievable,” Wharton said.

“Three trophies for Crystal Palace — the first three in the club’s history — and to win our first European competition, it’s just amazing. He’s probably one of the best managers Palace have ever had. He’s completely changed how the club approaches big competitions.”

Wharton, a key figure in Palace’s successful European campaign, added: “Just being in Europe is special, but to win it feels incredible. We’re proud to have done it for South London.”

The midfielder also reflected on missing out on Palace’s FA Cup celebrations last year after he was taken to hospital with a head injury during the match. This time, however, he might miss another celebration — not because of injury, but due to being randomly selected for a post-match doping test.

“It’s going to be a big one,” Wharton said about Palace’s party plans. “I missed the FA Cup last year, so I’ve got two celebrations to make up for. Unfortunately, I’ve got doping (testing) tonight, which kind of ruins the party a bit, but hopefully I can get that done quickly and then join the lads for a few beers.”

He added with a smile, “I’ll definitely make up for it here, 100 per cent.”

Reflecting on the team’s performance, Wharton said: “It’s hard to describe the feeling — it’s incredible. The fans, the atmosphere, it’s South London, you just can’t put it into words. We knew Rayo would be hard to break down — they’re one of the most intense and well-drilled sides in La Liga. The start was cagey, as it always is in finals, but we grew into the game, found space, and took control.”

He concluded, “We probably should have scored a few more goals to make it easier for ourselves and our supporters, but in the end, we got the job done. It was a fantastic performance.”