It was not the ‘pick-me-up’ we wanted, the result was frustrating but the performance was pleasing. The lads went to the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ and displayed the fighting spirit that has been synonymous with Palace over the last few years.
We restricted an improving Manchester United side to very few clear cut opportunities. A point would have been great, but we move on.
Absence Of Mile
Losing Mile Jedinak for this game was a worry. The Australian national captain is a massive player for us. A calming influence, but also a warrior, hence the nickname ‘Captain Jedi’.
In his absence both Joe Ledley and James McArthur filled the void and showed that we can cope without Jedinak if he got injured or more suspensions should arise.
Ledley in particular was fantastic. He took up the mantle and was the Welsh Jedinak, breaking up attacks and frustrating the United forward players. It was a superb performance from a midfielder that has really settled in well.
Need A Win
I know we had a terrific performance, but the result was not what we wanted. We desperately need a win. We are getting dragged to a place where we certainly do not want to be. A win to ease the pressure would be massive.
We had that four game unbeaten run when Neil Warnock took charge but the results have dried up. Most of the displays have been encouraging but we just have not been getting the rub of the green.
Liverpool is up next at Selhurst Park. We all know what happened the last time they visited South London.
It is perhaps the best time to play Liverpool. They are going through a wobbly patch like ourselves. It is a game that could change our fortunes. We need that direct approach that troubled them last year.
England Calling For Ward
Now this could be a big call. Could Joel Ward’s performances merit an England call-up in the future?
With the international break upon us once again I thought it would be a good time to throw this out there. A point many fans have been making. Roy Hodgson has named his squad for the upcoming qualifier and friendly. It is a young squad, full of vibrant, attacking players.
Former Eagle Nathaniel Clyne is amongst the squad and deservedly so. Could a current Eagle make the grade?
Joel Ward has been very consistent over the last two years, he is reliable, he attacks and he can defend. His display at Old Trafford was marvellous. A former ‘Galactico’ in Angel Di Maria could not find a way round. The Argentine international is one of the most revered footballers in elite football. Ward dealt with and handled the threat with consummate ease. Di Maria was hauled off. I will let you digest that.
He has all the attributes but the question will be if he can make the significant jump to international football. If he keeps performing the way he is, Roy Hodgson should take note. It might not be this year, but why not next?
We have to survive in the Premier League. Stay in the Premier League and we could see a Palace player don an England shirt once again.
I am interested to find out what other fans would think so comment below or Tweet myself or TEB.
