James Tomkins’ status as an unsung hero at Crystal Palace is merited, with the defender worthy of more praise from the wider footballing public.
In an article produced by FourFourTwo, the 30-year-old is described as Palace’s most underrated player:
Palace struggled for goals last season, but only five clubs kept more clean sheets.
Their relative solidity at the back was in part due to Roy Hodgson’s organisational nous, but a centre-back partnership of Tomkins and Mamadou Sakho was also integral.
Sakho carries a bigger reputation but Tomkis is well considered at Selhurst Park and still underrated by those outside the club.
A fine reader of the game, tough in the tackle and an aerial threat in both boxes, he’ll be crucial to the Eagles’ fortunes this term – and they’ll need him.
Read Crystal Palace Verdict
Tomkins’ worth as a footballer has not gone unnoticed during his time at Selhurst Park, with many Palace supporters treasuring what the centre-back brings to the team.
A consistent performer who goes about his business in an understated but effective manner, he has shone since joining from West Ham in 2016.
In terms of Tomkins’ reputation away from Palace, however, he doesn’t receive the credit he deserves.
Talk of an England call-up rarely comes his way – he is yet to receive a cap for his country – and more fashionable players invariably end up making the headlines over him.
Tomkins has arguably been Palace’s most dependable centre-back over the last three seasons, however, making 81 Premier League appearances in that time.
Is he a world-beater? No. Is he an unsung individual whose quality as a player remains undervalued? Absolutely.
James McArthur is also worthy of a mention in the unsung stakes, with the midfielder becoming increasingly key for Palace but rarely earning praise away from the club.
It’s still Tomkins who stands out the most in that respect, though, and he will be a big player for the Eagles this season.
