And the focus on that will be of less use if we go down - it could happen. The academy is not currently strengthening the first team squad. Strengthening the team should be the current focus.

I have said repeatedly, but not everybody agrees, that we need a creative midfielder (and by the bye, so do England!)

The problem is this very rare breed seems almost extinct and I wonder if Freedman is investigating in Europe or the lower leagues?

The stats say we are low goal scorers and the cry goes up for a new striker but what is the point if there is no service?

I am sure, that given creativity from midfield, Edouard would show his ability as he has ball skills. Not sure about Mateta as he is more of a (not very successful) hustler.

I say forget Gallagher and comb the world for a budding Pirlo and we will start scoring. Fix that then concentrate on the defence!

Man and boy Palace since my first game in 1948 sitting on my dad's shoulders

We never really replaced Cabaye.

We could do with Shelvey. Someone with a bit of bite. We've got no steel. Players like Eze and Olise are eze (sorry) on the eye, but you wouldn't want them in the trenches with you.

Who are the leaders out there?

Ooh the rumours have started [Link]

I'd see if we could pick up Houssem Aouar for next to nothing. bags of ability, and needs a fresh start.

i will throw a name out there, Todd Cantwell ,box to box midfielder ,similar player to Gallagher and looks like Norwich are willing to listen to offers around 10 million . He was thought to be the next cab on the rank a couple of years ago and is still only 24