Things have turned from bad to worse for Crystal Palace and bet365 Stadium is a tricky place to visit and make things right. However, we expect the Eagles boss, Sam Allardyce, to get his team selection right this time, which would bring about a more performance on the pitch.
A change in the Defence
Despite bringing in three in-demand defenders this winter transfer window and spending a fortune, Allardyce is yet to find a set backline for the Eagles. The defence has been immensely easy to penetrate for the opponents and the boss is yet to use all the new weapons in his arsenal.
The sense of frustration that has grown among Palace fans is pretty much to do with the complacent attitude of Allardyce. A quick look at Hull City manager Marco Silva will make anyone realise how magically pep talks work for players new at a club. Despite bringing in unproven prospects from other teams, the Portuguese boss manoeuvred the side brilliantly getting in positive results. For Palace, on the other hand, Aanholt has been pretty underwhelming since joining and Allardyce seems to give more time for Sakho to adjust.
The Liverpool loanee has been quite effective for Liverpool previously and he could definitely be a season-changer for the Eagles.
Wrong midfield selection
James McArthur has undoubtedly been the best midfielder for the Palace this season and also a prolific goal scorer. The Scotland international has scored five times and assisted thrice. But, playing him out his natural position on the wings will do little help in getting goals.
Allardyce has acknowledged that the midfield duo of Jason Puncheon and Yohan Cabaye has been easily broken by simple tricks and the double pivot has done little to help the defence. While the boss waits for his high-profile purchase Milivojevic to get his work permit to play in the Premier League, modifying the midfield will be an uphill task for him. We expect McArthur to move back to his natural position alongside Puncheon.
The issue with Andros Townsend
His position at the club is now dragged too much. The winger undoubtedly has the potential to make things happen up front, but it seems like his off the field problems are affecting his form. Wilfred Zaha’s blistering form on the right wing has prevented the managers, both Allardyce and Alan Pardew, from using him in his preferred position.
However, he would definitely fit very well on the flanks compared to McArthur and Allardyce isn’t expected to repeat the mistake again.
