Crystal Palace vs Manchester United: Seven talking points for the game at Selhurst Park
PREVIEW: The race for the top four is far from over
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The skilful winger made a big money move to Manchester United during Sir Alex Ferguson’s final transfer window. However, under the tutelage of David Moyes and briefly Louis van Gaal, Wilfried Zaha had little opportunity to impress and was shipped back to south London for a big loss. He will be desperate to prove a point.
RAT RACE STILL ON?
The ‘Rat Race’ for the fourth Champions League spot, as Louis van Gaal likes to call it, is still some way from the finish line. Three defeats in a row for his side have left the Red Devils with plenty of work still to do. A win at Selhurst Park could pretty much secure their place in next season’s Champions League.
NEVER SAY NEVER
Since Alan Pardew has been at Crystal Palace the Eagles have won more points from losing positions than any other side in the Premier League. No matter what the score is, there’s always a chance of a comeback for the boys from Selhurst Park.
ROONEY THE STRIKER?
When Michael Carrick returned from injury, Wayne Rooney was moved forward to striker, and United played their best football of the season, going on a marvellous run of form. However, since another injury to Carrick, Rooney has had to play deep once more, and United have lost three in a row. Will Van Gaal bite the bullet and put Wayne back in his favoured position?
OLD FASHIONED WING PLAY
In Zaha and the sought after Yannick Bolasie, Palace have two of the most exciting wide players in the league, capable of beating a man and producing a cross to win a game. With United struggling in recent weeks, the wingers will be licking their lips at facing a disjointed backline.
WILL THE REAL RVP PLEASE STAND UP
Robin Van Persie has endured a difficult season at Old Trafford with injuries and questionable form. However, despite a penalty miss the Dutch striker looked sharp last week against West Brom and could be getting back to his best. With his future for Man United still on the line, he will be desperate to get back to scoring ways as soon as possible.
ROCKING SELHURST
Crystal Palace have very little left to play. However that hasn’t stopped the fans at Selhurst Park from making it an intimidating atmosphere for whatever away side is next. Never has 'the 12th man' been a more apt moniker than for the Palace fans.
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