Despite sealing a famous victory over West Ham United, Crystal Palace arguably have one of the least balanced teams in the Premier League. The Eagles have done really well this campaign but with the January transfer market approaching fast, here are three areas they need to strengthen if they are to challenge for Europe this season.
Central midfield
Crystal Palace have a shortage of options in central midfield. They often appear over-reliant on the services of Luka Milivojevic. The Serbian is in charge of not only protecting the backline but also providing creativity by delivering accurate crosses from set-pieces.
Cheikhou Kouyate has emerged as a first-team option, but the likes of James McCarthy and Victor Camarasa haven’t exactly been effective, with the latter featuring in just one game. And given Milivojevic’s workload, it’s probably wiser for Crystal Palace to sign a midfielder, who can complement the Serbian in the middle of the park.
Someone like RB Leipzig’s Diego Demme could be a perfect option for the Eagles in their bid to fill the void in central midfield.
Creativity
Creativity is always crucial for any team. And while Palace have one of the best wingers in the league in the shape of Wilfried Zaha, they don’t really have anyone else. Andros Townsend has done well, but he can appear inconsistent. As for Max Meyer, the German has struggled a lot since arriving from FC Schalke. It’s also fair to mention that Zaha’s days at Selhurst Park are likely numbered, given how he was linked with a move elsewhere in the summer.
Although Roy Hodgson’s style of play requires minimal creativity, Palace should definitely get someone who can provide the creative spark going forward, especially from set-pieces. Pascal Gross, for one, should be an excellent alternative, though the ex-Ingolstadt star plays a key role for Brighton & Hove Albion.
Lack of potency
Christian Benteke is arguably the most out of form striker in the Premier League right now. The ex-Aston Villa talent has never really managed to find his scoring rhythm after joining Liverpool. He last scored in the Premier League way back in April against Arsenal.
Either way, the Belgian’s contract at Selhurst Park expires at the end of the season. As for Jordan Ayew, he is the current number nine and has done well so far, notably starring in the win over West Ham.
Having said that, the Ghanaian is clearly not a fully-fledged striker. Palace, therefore, should be on the lookout for a more complete striker in January, who can not only be utilised as an alternative for Ayew but also a replacement for Benteke.
