Strand Larsen Emphasises Forward Step After Difficult Wolves Exit Ahead Of Crystal Palace Move

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Jorgen Strand Larsen is enjoying a fresh spell at Crystal Palace, after a difficult time at Wolves. The Norway forward has three goals in six Premier League matches for Palace, plus one assist in the Conference League. Palace are chasing a European spot, while Wolves remain deep in trouble near the bottom.

Wolves sit 13 points from safety with eight league games left, leaving survival hopes very slim. Palace, in contrast, are seven points away from the European positions and still hold a game in hand. The different situations highlight why Strand Larsen felt a move was necessary at this stage.

The 26-year-old initially joined Wolves on loan from Celta Vigo for the 2024-25 season. That switch later became permanent the following summer. Strand Larsen started strongly in England, scoring 14 goals and registering four assists in his debut Premier League campaign, showing efficiency in front of goal.

The following season turned far more difficult. Strand Larsen managed just one goal in 22 Premier League appearances for Wolves in the 2025-26 campaign. There was a bright moment in the FA Cup, when the striker hit a hat-trick against Shrewsbury Town. Even that display, though, could not change Wolves' league slide.

Strand Larsen explained that months without progress affected confidence and energy. "It had been six months that had been completely hopeless. It had been very tough mentally, physically and in every way possible, Strand Larsen told VG Sporten. I didnt want it to end that way at Wolves, because its a fantastic club that I care about."

The forward stressed that the squad felt constant strain during the long winless run. "I hoped things would change, but for me it was important to take a step forward. When you have zero wins after half a season, there is of course a lot of pressure from outside. We footballers also put a lot of pressure on ourselves. We have high expectations and everyone wants to take new steps and be the main man. Especially me who didnt quite get it. So, it was tough, but thats in the past now."

Strand Larsen underlined a wish to help Wolves escape relegation, yet accepted that circumstances forced change. The move to Crystal Palace gave a chance to reset and compete higher up the Premier League table. His early Palace numbers suggest renewed sharpness, while Wolves continue to battle against the drop.

{TABLE_1} summarises the contrasting positions for both clubs, including Wolves' 13-point gap to safety and Palace's seven-point distance from the European spots, along with their remaining games. Strand Larsen's situation reflects how one player can experience both a relegation fight and a continental push within the same Premier League season.