What new Eagles coach said about Nigeria-eligible forward Michael Olise

The dynamic duo Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze will not represent Nigeria's Super Eagles. (Photo Credit: Imago)

What new Eagles coach said about Nigeria-eligible forward Michael Olise

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 08:39 - 18.05.2024

Nigeria and Super Eagles hopeful Michael Olise has been described as a great human being alongside teammate Eberechi Eze.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has hailed midfield duo Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze as "great players" and "great humans" ahead of the Eagles' final Premier League game of the season against Aston Villa.

Olise and Eze, who are eligible to represent Nigeria's Super Eagles, have been in impressive form this campaign, scoring 10 goals and providing 5 assists in just 18 league appearances while his teammate has also shone brightly, netting 9 times and setting up 3 goals in 26 outings.

Eagles boss praise Michael Olise, Eze

Speaking to the media, Glasner revealed that he was so impressed by the close bond between the two playmakers that he initially thought they were brothers, before realising they were not related.

"Everybody knows that they are great players, but what I also appreciate is that they are great guys, great humans," the Austrian beamed according to the club website

Crystal Palace's Michael Olise has contributed 15 goals this season.
Crystal Palace's Michael Olise has contributed 15 goals this season. (Photo Credit: Imago)

"They had to show me their passports this week because I thought they are brothers! But they aren't."

The Palace boss went on to praise Olise and Eze's unwavering passion for the game, explaining how they would often stay behind after training sessions to indulge in extra practice and skills sessions, clearly reveling in their craft.

New Palace manager Oliver Glasner is enjoying working with Michael Olise and Eze.
New Palace manager Oliver Glasner is enjoying working with Michael Olise and Eze.

"You can see how much they enjoy football," Glasner said. "This is the basement for being successful: enjoying what you do, loving what you do, loving the sport you are doing."

The Eagles boss emphasized the importance of cultivating a positive environment where players feel comfortable and can express themselves freely - a philosophy that appears to be paying dividends with the outstanding performances of Olise and Eze.

Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise are both eligible to represent the Nigeria Super Eagles.
Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise are both eligible to represent the Nigeria Super Eagles. (Photo Credit: Imago)

"This is the environment we want to create, that everybody feels well," he explained. "Everybody likes to come in the morning and work hard, having fun together. They show it at the moment. This is also crucial for their performances on the pitch and in the games."

As the season draws to a close, all eyes will be on Olise and Eze to see if they can maintain their remarkable form and help Palace finish the campaign on a high note. 

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And with their manager's glowing endorsement, the future certainly looks bright for these two exceptional young talents.

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