Speaking to Sky Sports 1 following Crystal Palace’s game against Watford, former striker Kevin Phillips has suggested that the South London club can compete for a Europa League spot this season.
As it stands, the Eagles are currently in 6th place in the Premier League table, following important wins at grounds like Stamford Bridge and Vicarage Road.
Derby’s assistant manager Phillips has stated the Alan Pardew has ‘developed a quality squad’ at Selhurst Park and the former Palace and Watford striker is expecting big things.
This season, Palace have won four games with Watford being the most recent side to give Pardew’s side three points thanks to a Yohan Cabaye penalty.
When the media discuss Crystal Palace’s football now, many speak about how frightening their attack can be. However, it was their defensive grit that got them an important three points on the weekend, dealing with numerous chances from the hosts.
“I think they can stay where they are,” he predicted. “I think they can push for a Europa League spot. They have shown that they can be resilient and they’ve got strength in depth.
“When Damien Delaney is out, they can bring in [Brede] Hangeland, and they’ve shown they can leave [Wilfried] Zaha out, so he can come on and change the game.
“They have options in the middle of the park, too, so if they can keep everything fit I don’t see any reason why they can’t be right up there. They’ve got goals in the team, they’ve got pace and they defended solidly. They’re in a really good position at the moment.”
Quotes via HITC.
