The dream has come to fruition and Palace has finally signed a left back of considerable note. Pape Souare has just joined the Eagles and is already approaching his Premier League debut. Is he ready for the physicality, and is he capable, from a fitness perspective, of measuring up to the demands of the most revered league in the world.
On paper the answer is yes, Souare has exactly what Palace have been lacking. No offense at all directed at Martin Kelly who has filled a huge void since joining up after Pulis’ departure; adapting his game as well as possible to the left hand side of the field.
We commence with Souare’s favoured left foot and something that will increase the pace of Palace’s attacking game immeasurably. Now having the ability to overlap the likes of Bolasie and Zaha means that when we are in the final third of the opposition’s half the pace can emerge and Souare offers the option to either immediately cross, (rather than cutting in on his right foot like Kelly) or round the wingers and provide an option if our wingers are being shut down, which is generally evidenced in the majority of oppositions’ tactics.
Souare is also very dangerous in the air, with a vertical leap that can only be compared to an impala, his time in the French league showed his ability to climb above opposition defenders and win the ball both from a defensive perspective and attacking. This will be particularly noteworthy for Palace’s set pieces, which have come on significantly this season, and where a number of goals have originated. He showed his work rate on the international scale in the recent African cup of Nations and demonstrated enthusiasm and determination. The issue that stands out most is what an attractive prospect Palace is becoming for players of international renown. Lest we forget, the last time a mediocre left back joined from the French league he got zero playing time. My thoughts of course go out to the forgotten Florian Marange.
For me, Souare looks to be one of the best signings in recent seasons as he seems to possess drive and passion playing for the boys in red and blue and is gelling with the rest of the ranks quickly. Pardew’s brilliant footballing mind will coax him into the Premier League gracefully and I can’t wait to see his duel at the weekend against some of the Arsenal big guns.
Three cheers for the board for adding another exciting maverick to our stellar squad.
