If you have been a diligent follower of Alan Pardew’s career, the season Crystal Palace underwent the last term was probably not a big surprise for you. Just remember his days with West Ham and Newcastle? Pardew looks invincible on his day while he looks clueless when things don’t go his way, there is no in between. Crystal Palace will be looking for a much better showing this campaign following their up and down season and Pardew has started his work in the transfer market.
Crystal Palace have sealed three superb deals this summer bringing Andros Townsend, Steve Mandanda and James Tomkins to the Selhurst Park. Although they are far from done in the market, Pardew has managed to upgrade the squad to some extent. Probably a more capable centre-forward and another central defender are still missing but there is still a long time before the summer transfer window slams shut.
As things stand, what should be the Eagles’ strongest possible starting XI? We will discuss that in this article.
Defence
Crystal Palace have four quality goalkeepers right now with Steve Mandanda, Wayne Hennessey, Alex McCarthy and Julian Speroni. Although, it’s not even a tough ask to pick Mandanda who stands out from the rest in terms of quality and experience both. Joel Ward and Pape Souare will remain the first-choice full-backs and the centre-back pairing should be James Tomkins and Scott Dann.
Midfield
Yohan Cabaye is an obvious choice in the middle of the park. James McArthur is likely to partner the Frenchman in most games. The Eagles will have enough depth in the middle of the park with Jedinak, Ledley and Mutch. Jason Puncheon did a great job as a number ten last season and he is likely to be Crystal Palace’s first choice number ten. Andros Townsend and Yannick Bolasie are likely to be Pardew’s first choice wingers with Wilfred Zaha providing a good competition.
Attack
A new number nine seems to be pretty much on the cards. However, as thing stand, Connor Wickham will definitely get the nod in the starting XI ahead of Campbell and Appiah.
