Alan Pardew issues warning to clubs chasing Crystal Palace striker Dwight Gayle

The visitors made sure of an opening-day victory when Yohan Cabaye, a £10million summer signing from Paris St Germain, slotted in a third goal during stoppage time.

As ever, reality lies somewhere in the middle and while the PL experience may prove useful, especially in the first couple of months of the season, survival or otherwise will ultimately be decided by Alex Neil’s ability to get a tune out of his squad. “I didn’t think the balance of the team was very good”.

“We scored with the last kick of the game, there’s no doubt that flattered us”, he said.

Despite his characteristic confidence about Palace’s prospects, Pardew also revealed a recognition Norwich represent a hard opening league fixture and stressed the importance of his team making a strong start to the coming season.

Pardew was appointed Palace manager in January, after leaving Newcastle, and inspired them to a 10th-placed finish when they had previously been at serious threat of relegation.

Pardew admitted he has a decision to make over who will wear the goalkeeper gloves come Saturday, acknowledging that both Wayne Hennessey and Alex McCarthy will have hopes of worldwide action.

“It helps a lot that I know the manager”.

“If there is one thing Norwich will have to gain it is that nous”.

These players may be available on cut price deals after not establishing themselves at Crystal Palace.

“Three points for me is the best way to start the season because after this we have some big games so it was important to get the points today”, he told the club’s website.

“That is what we are about, and have been for a couple of seasons, putting bodies on the line, getting blocks and really digging in when the going gets tough”.