When they get match fitness, which isn’t going to be instant. It’s not only stamina but their bodies need to be right to not suffer injuries like the most common one only playing will strengthen. The groin area. Then there’s hamstrings etc and I’m sure with a strong side available and our recent problems with injuries and availability we won’t be taking any hurried risks. We’re not desperate like last season in effectively cup finals every week.

COYP

Yep, just Ray and Roy in a mask!

So I manage a Workshop which provides a safe learning environment for blokes struggling with PTSD and other mental health issues. Being a Palace fan isn't listed yet.

We definitely will need them fit and playing ASAP. Yesterday we had a weaker side out then last season without Cabaye and Loftus-Cheek to strengthen our midfield. It was fortunate that we had Fulham first and they were bedding in new players. As good as Hennessey was, I’m sure those chances Fulham had would have been put away by other prem players. Think if those two players had been available for us then Benteke would have been on the bench with Zaha and Townsend as our main forwards? Pleased with win but not sure if we are stronger than last season yet?

I hope not, I would really like us to see our team built to accommodate a central striker. I realise that last season we had no choice due to injuries and poor form we had to play with just zaha and Andros furthest forward.

Yesterday though I think our attacking shape was better with a focal point. Bentekes link up play yesterday was good, and he was unlucky not to score with a header. Also he sprayed that cross field ball to start AWB on his run for the second goal...

Could we do that crazy Spanish thing of having no natural strikers but midfielders rotate to move forward? When Bentekes head was proper down last year we wern't far off that anyway and could be great to watch! I think we should try it in a League cup match just as an experiment...

I like Schlupp, but of the midfield four I think he is the one most likely to lose his place to Meyer. The little German is also capable of hitting accurate direct balls, which will be key when we're forced to play on the counter. Ayew I imagine will be on the bench ready to put pressure on Bentenke if he doesn't find his scoring boots. Having said that Bentenke appeared to work harder than Zaha yesterday and looked a bit happier.