Roy Hodgson would be hoping some change in their fortunes following their encouraging showings in the last match against West Ham United but it might not be enough as they travel to Wembley to face a jubilant Tottenham Hotspur this weekend.
November isn’t a good month for the managers and Hodgson would be more than happy in salvaging a draw. Palace did show some resistance against Chelsea as they defeated the defending champions 2-1 but Spurs would pose a different kind of challenge and Hodgson’s side needs to withstand this if they want anything from this match.
Palace were firing blanks before the Chelsea match but since then, they have scored four goals in the last three matches, which will definitely give them a brief confidence going into this match.
Spurs made a solid start to this season but a defeat against Manchester United in the Premier League has made them restless and they would be adamant to back into the forefront.
Predicted 4-4-2 Crystal Palace Starting Lineup Vs Tottenham Hotspur
Defence
Julian Speroni has emerged as the number one choice in the last few matches and he is expected to be in the goal. Spurs do have one of the most exciting attacking contingents in the Premier League and Speroni is set to have the busiest afternoon at the Wembley Stadium.
Hodgson needs to set up his defence keeping in mind of the fiercest Spurs attack. James Tomkins would be expecting a role in this crucial match which could well define their season.
Scott Dann will be there to assist himself.
Jeffrey Schlupp will be back in his original left back position as Patrick van Aanholt has been ruled out with an injury.
Joel Ward will be on the opposite side.
Midfield
Luka Milivojevic needs to pick himself up from the base of the midfield. The holding midfielder’ role could decide the outcome of the match.
Yohan Cabaye needs to switch his focus to this match. The French international needs to be in his top gear and will be hoping to see out this match.
Attack
Ruben Loftus-Cheek will definitely want to celebrate his England call-up with a good performance against Spurs
Bakary Sako will start this match on the left wing.
Hodgson does have some real problem in picking up his strikers. Both Connor Wickham and Christian Bentek will be missing this match. Wilfried Zaha and Aaron Townsend will be leading the line for the Eagles.
