Sam Allardyce hasn’t been able to weave his magic yet at Crystal Palace as they Eagles have managed just one point in the three games he has been in charge. Since Alan Pardew’s dismissal, Palace have faced Watford, Arsenal and Swansea City. While a point and a defeat against the first two teams was understandable, a defeat at the hands of Swansea was in no way acceptable.
Palace still have a few areas to strengthen and even though they have some really good players in their squad, the balance is still missing. Big Sam is a very shrewd manager when it comes to signing players and last season showed that when all his winter signings hit the ground running and helped Sunderland avoid the drop.
In a bid to add more balance and depth to the team, Crystal Palace have been linked with Norwich City left-back Robbie Brady. At just 24, he’s become a pretty good versatile player but is best suited to a full-back role.
After spending his youth career at Manchester United, Brady had to move elsewhere to get a breakthrough. He made a name for himself at Hull City where he was a regular and offered the width down the left-hand side. His versatility meant that then Steve Bruce could use him as a winger as well and he justified the positional change with some strong performances.
Brady has a brilliant left foot and can whip in some dangerous crosses into the box, something that is needed at Crystal Palace. Although Palace have some decent wingers Andros Townsend and Wilfred Zaha, Benteke hasn’t had the best of service and Brady could add some much needed potency from the left. Even though Brady has a brilliant attacking ability, he doesn’t shy away from his defensive performances. His recovery pace enables him to track back in time and make timely tackles.
Brady’s stock rose after the Euro 2016 but Norwich somehow managed to hold on to him. Now that they have dropped down the table despite a strong start, a move is likely if the Canaries get a good offer for the Northern Irishman.
Palace were dealt a massive blow when Pape Souare was ruled out for the rest of the season with a nasty car crash. Joel Ward hasn’t been able to impress in the left back position and it’s about time Big Sam signs someone who can offer more stability at the back.
