Palace Preview: Eagles look to nullify Norwich’s biggest threat

PREVIOUS MEETINGS

It’s been a quick turnaround since the two sides last met during the festive period, with Palace running out comfortable 3-0 winners. After Odsonne Edouard gave Palace the perfect start from the penalty spot early on, goals from Jean-Philippe Mateta and Jeffrey Schlupp before half-time put the result beyond doubt.

The Eagles’ last trip to Carrow Road came on New Year’s Day two years ago, as Connor Wickham’s late equaliser cancelled out Todd Cantwell’s opener to see the points shared.

PREVIEW

Another FA Cup win and dreams of a trip to Wembley have buoyed Patrick Vieira’s side as the Premier League returns following the winter break.

The 2-0 victory over Hartlepool United on Saturday was as drama-free as the manager could possibly have hoped for, with Marc Guéhi and Michael Olise providing the goals. Olise’s performance stood out in particular, demonstrating the kind of form that saw him crowned the club’s Player of the Month for the first time in January.

While league form at Selhurst Park has stuttered due to a controversial defeat to Liverpool, Palace’s performances on the road have improved. Two fierce clashes against Brighton & Hove Albion and Millwall in January saw them emerge without defeat, unfortunate not to have a perfect record after leading at the Amex until late on.

After a poor start to the season Norwich’s form has greatly improved under Dean Smith, the former Aston Villa man guiding them to three straight wins – including booking their place in the FA Cup fifth round.

Victories over Everton and Watford in the league have boosted their points tally in their search for survival, now sitting a place above the relegation zone and a point clear of rivals Watford and Newcastle United.

TACTICAL OVERVIEW

Norwich’s three-goal defeat of Watford in their last league outing demonstrated the importance of full-backs to their system. On the right, Max Aarons has continued his excellent form of the last few years, while on the left Brandon Williams – on loan from Manchester United until the end of the season – has made an impression by winning the club’s Player of the Month award.

Palace will try and nullify the threat with their own hard-working wide players, with Jordan Ayew, Olise and Edouard all willing to track back and help Joel Ward and Tyrick Mitchell in defence.