Crystal Palace, under Alan Pardew, have been one of the most frustrating sides to watch in the last year or so. Comprising of genuinely talented players and a manager who was touted for the England manager’s post, this team has underachieved to an abnormally large extent. The gaffer has been given the funds and the freedom but things just don’t seem to fall into place for them.
After a couple of defeats, they had seemingly turned things around, going on a 5-match unbeaten streak. Sitting pretty in the top half of the table, little did the fans anticipate what was about to commence. A 6-match losing streak with some ridiculous defending and bewildering management sees them 17th in the table, destined for a relegation battle.
But their unpredictable and inconsistent nature might prove to be their boon now as they possess enough quality to turn things around once more. They have a mixed bag of upcoming fixtures but there are winnable fixtures sandwiched in between.
Let us take a look at 3 players who need to step up for the Eagles to fly again.
ANDROS TOWNSEND
Another addition to the department of flair players at Crystal Palace, Townsend has mirrored Palace’s poor form and has failed to live up to the expectations. Having made the £13m move from Newcastle United after the Magpies got relegated, he slotted into the team upon the departure of Bolasie.
Possessing enough talent to leave a mark, his reluctance to pass and penchant for losing possession when opting to shoot from distance has been his drawback once again. With only 1 goal and 1 assist in 13 Premier League appearances, the player needs to step up big time.
ALAN PARDEW
He might not be a player but the man has got to step up big time. He will have known by now his chicken dance is not going to get him anywhere as far as the Premier League is concerned.
Failing to utilise a truckload of talent, there have been talks of him being a fluke at Newcastle United. Either way, he has to prove his doubters wrong and step up. Or the knives will surely be out after another loss. Or maybe even before it. Who knows?
YOHAN CABAYE
Another £13m signing, the midfield maestro was on the radar of many top clubs during his best days while at Newcastle United. He did make the touted big money move to PSG but failed to shine amongst a host of other stars and after a frustrating spell was scooped up by Pardew to Crystal Palace.
While he has shown glimpses of his potential here, he is yet to influence the tempo of the game as is expected from him. Cabaye can certainly steer the errant Eagles back to their best but has to put in a lot more.
