A youngster to watch - Joel Drakes-Thomas

[Getty Images] Crystal Palace's successful Conference League campaign, which ended with the Eagles winning their first European trophy, provided an opportunity for young players to impress. Joel Drakes-Thomas was one of those to shine as, aged 16 years and 192 days, he made his senior debut in the 2-2 draw with Finnish side KuPS, producing a player-of-the-match performance. He played against Leeds two days after the KuPS match, becoming the youngest player to turn out for the club in the Premier League. Drakes-Thomas, who can play as a right wing-back or on the wing, turned 17 in June and signed his first professional contract with the Eagles at the beginning of July after being with the club since the age of six. He has already made four senior appearances and will be hoping for many more in 2026-27. Read more on youngsters to watch at each Premier League club this season