Going into this game with Patrick at the helm had doom and gloom written all over it. Not here to lay blame, that is much more complex and looking up; nevertheless the players will see the moment as a reboot. Whatever the outcome, it is a new beginning and we should all wish Paddy and his team positive vibes and perhaps see a bit of the old palace fight, even if we go down to the best team in Prem right now, on their home turf. Nowhere near as critical as the games coming up after the int. break. If Joe is in goal, then it has a script of magical mystery written all over it!

Well said.

And the squad will be very aware that he has his pool of Academy players to be substitutes or starters ready and willing to do their bit for their club.

Bit like Peter Taylor then.

Sydenham by birth. Selhurst by the Grace of God.

Unless Hughes is over his illness, Paddy had the same problem against Arsenal that PV would have had. And that’s only Doucoure being a recognised central midfielder. Lakonga isn’t available and Macca is injured? We may have to play Luka to balance our midfield?

Hughes/Macca both had an illness & both trained y/day & as they are at the training ground, i assume they will both train today. I agree it looks increasingly likely, Luka will start alongside Doucoure(interesting who gets the 1st yellow/red). Guaita has got a 'Hammy' so 4-6 weeks, Johnstone due back after break. Ferguson(remember him) played most of U21's y/day & got booked. ASL cant play against parent club.

This operation, will make the 'Charge Of The Light Brigade' seem like a simple military exercise.