Man Utd set back Palace’s Zaha – Pardew

‘Newcastle, Sunderland, Leeds and Sheffield Wednesday are among those who face a mountainous climb to return to their old prominence, ‘ Neville writes in his Daily Telegraph column.

Much has been made of Crystal Palace’s fine start to the season so it might surprise some to find that these two sides nestle together in mid-table with the same number of points. I know there were other reasons. They have achieved very good results away from home.

Sports Mole previews Crystal Palace’s tricky trip to London rivals Watford as the Eagles swoop for a first victory in three games.

Behrami serves the second of his three-match ban following his red card in the win over Swansea, while defender Joel Ekstrand remains sidelined until December after suffering cruciate ligament damage in March.

“It’s getting him on the ball which is the next phase for him and the end product”, he concluded.

And Pardew believes Deeney’s partnership with Odion Ighalo is one of the main reasons the Premier League newcomers have made an impressive start. He was also unlucky not to score late in the game as he went on a great run, creating a chance for himself, which highlighted his attacking ability. It was an early sign that his side were up for it this term.

The 22-year-old has been unable to recapture his form and Pardew, whose team visit Watford on Sunday, said Zaha’s United move had set him back. Cabaye will be key this weekend as Palace are likely to see more of the ball and the Frenchman enjoys to get the ball as often as possible.

In a game that looks hard to call, the odds against about the second half being the highest scoring could offer the best route to profit.

It will be an interesting match as both sides play a similar style of play, therefore one will have to alter their style in this game. “But they have it, which is very fortunate Watford, they handle the division very well”. They are tied for points with Everton, Swansea, Crystal Palace and Tottenham.