Of all the teams this season, Palace under Pardew probably under-performed the most. I can't agree with Puel's dismissal of the Palace squad and I think Allardyce deserves some credit from steering them away from the relegation zone. I think Sunderland, 'Boro and Swansea are down which is reflective of the fact they are the three poorest teams this season. This will be a difficult game as they always seem an awkward opposition. I am not anticipating it to be much of a spectacle either through no fault of our management or players. Allardyce sides are usually dour to watch and our lack of goals without Gabbiandini are suggestive of a low scoring game devoid of entertainment. This season, our better performances have been against decent opposition and I don't have expectations of this one being a thriller. Anyone else surprised by Zaha's decision toi switch from England to Cote D'Ivoire?
I'd suggest that these last four games are just the start of the Palace turnaround. I could certainly see them challenging for a top half finish next season. Hey, they might even do it this season (especially given that the four or five us hovering around there at the moment are hardly making a strong case right now).
Was more than just one poster, can remember plenty of people both online and in the media saying Sam had lost his touch etc. He was always going to get them out of it, they've got a very decent squad and one that suits him hugely. I said very much the same thing when he was appointed. Probably a bit much this year but nailed on for top 10 next year imo. I know people will say this is negative but I will genuinely be astounded if we win this.
Probably me seperate point, but looking back on the whole corruption thing that got him sacked from England, I think more and more that the FA were wrong, and if they'd had a bit more patience he could have easily survived that. Also Pardew hasn't got another job yet, how strange.
Where did he say this? In the press conference earlier he said "They are all direct opponents who are with confidence after good recent results. Crystal Palace have won their last games including the win over Chelsea." “It’s important we have a good focus and concentration about this strong team. They are physical and good on the counter-attack."
In the press conference this afternoon where he stated that there were no players in the Palace squad that he would prefer to his own
I would argue that's not dismissing the Palace squad but boosting the morale of his own. As far as diplomacy goes, Puel is right up there with the greatest managers, but there can be an edge to it. And anyway, he's right. With all our squad fully fit, there isn't anyone from Palace I'd rate above the equivalent player at Saints, including Benteke v Gabbiadini.
Seeing as I'm watching Breaking Bad for the first time I'm sure he had something to say about the blue crystal.
He was shown on Sky thanking the people who prepare such a great pitch at St Marys, then added....'and not just for the penalty spot'.
