After a thrilling victory over Arsenal last Monday, the Eagles are now more confident than ever of escaping relegation at the end of the season. They host a rejuvenated Leicester City side next, who have turned their misfortunes into an adventurous campaign after sacking their title winning manager last month.
Defence
Wayne Hennessey should take his position under the bar. The Wales international had nothing to do against a toothless Arsenal side. Sam Allardyce trusts him more than Steven Mandanda as of now and he is clearly showing why.
The back line is highly unlikely to change, with the four that started against Arsenal. Palace’s defence was rock solid and hardly gave any space to Arsenal and must be brimming with confidence as they welcome a Leicester side who conceded four in their last game.
Jefferey Schlupp should start in the left back position. The 24-year-old will definitely have a point to prove when he faces his former club. He moved to London owing to lack of first team chances at King Power Stadium last winter, and the absence of Patrick Van Aanholt has placed the chance right on his lap.
The right defensive flank will be taken by Joel Ward. On a night when Alexis Sanchez was severely out of touch, Ward enjoyed a confident display in that position. The central defensive position will be once again be graced by Palace’s new hero, Mamadou Sakho. The Frenchman had yet another solid display last game and looks impenetrable at the moment. He will be partnered by Martin Kelly.
Midfield
The double pivot should be taken by the successful Luka Milivojevic and Yohan Cabaye. The duo was absolutely phenomenal against Arsenal while picking out passes from the deep midfield as they found Wilfred Zaha and Christian Benteke repeatedly.
Both the midfielders got their respective goals as their hard work paid off, and the fans would expect a similar display against Leicester City.
The number 10 role should again be taken by the combative Jason Puncheon. Unlike most other Premier League playmakers, Puncheon relies mostly on his work rate and closing down defenders.
Attack
The flanks are expected to be taken by Wilfred Zaha and Andros Townsend. After being criticised for most of the season, the forwards are finally getting the plaudits they are worth of. Townsend got the opening goal of the last fixture, which was crucial as Arsenal never seemed like getting back into the game after that.
Benteke will lead the attack for sure. The Belgian created all sorts of trouble for the Arsenal back line with his muscular physique that he used to the fullest.
