Even poor players have the odd good game. If he continues to do well then it'll be a bonus - but I wouldn't bank on it.

Red and Blue Army!

Lots of good points here.
In answer to the question, I think that both Mateta and Edouard have really improved their hold up play due to dedicated and relentless coaching in this area. Neither had a clue how to hold it up last year but both strikers across their appearances vs West Ham, Liverpool and Man City have retained possession and fed the ball on to team mates really impressively and against good defenders.

I ain't got nuthin' funny to say. Sorry.

Whatever we are feeding Mateta, we need to keep it up. He looked slimmer, fitter, faster and more skilful than Ive ever seen him. Just hope that Foden atrocity foul didn't damage him. Modern day shin pads clearly work.

I think for good reason.

He's rarely displayed any quality when he has played - selections should be earned and I don't think he's been doing enough to make the manager want to give him a run in the team.

Yesterday may have been a turning point. That was a performance that can't be ignored. Needs to do it regularly now...

Old, Ungifted and White

Roy has clearly never fancied him. He barely played him after he was signed and then since he's returned he's only been getting cameos once Eduoard is tired out from walking too much. It's possible he's a player who does better when they start as they need time to find their way into a game. Other players are better coming on and making an impact. It doesn't help that Mateta looks like he's knackered every time he runs ten feet. His first touch and hold up play were massively improved on Saturday compared to most games this season where the ball has just bounced off him. It's almost certain he'll start on Thursday so he'll get another chance to prove he should be starting. I like him as a personality so I really hope he does continue this form.

Edit: This popped up as a memory on my socials. Who remembers this satire that did the rounds back when? Mateta can probably relate!

"Dear Jonas,
It is with great pride and joy I am writing you this letter today. I have been informed by reliable sources that I am the captain, and first choice striker on your fantasy-team.
I know I don't score goals, or produce many assists or get to come on much at all. Therefore it is with great pleasure I register that people still believe in me those 15 times I have been on the pitch this year.
You and all my biggest fans, mom and dad, are my inspiration in continuing my performances for Crystal Palace and the Norwegian national team. You are the ones I think of when I’m on the pitch for five minutes in every other match. I don’t think too much about my playing time. And since I don’t get too much time on the ball I don’t need to think about it either. Therefore I can just wander around on the pitch, look up to the stands, and wonder if you’re in the stands cheering me on.
Jonas. I hope you will come and see me warm up sometime during the season. I’ll talk to Hodgson and see to that I’ll be running up and down the sideline for a long time so that you can see me in action when you come to London.
I can’t get you free tickets. Only the best lads get. But I’ve talked to Edna at the Popcorn-corner, and she’ll give you a 15 % discount on a bucket of popcorn.
Send me a message on Facebook if you’re travelling to England.
Your friend, captain, and striker.
Alexander Sørloth"

Edited by taylors lovechild (18 Dec 2023 9.00am)

Without going too overboard, I think Mateta's performance on Saturday was the best I've seen from a Palace line leading forward for some years now.

Old, Ungifted and White