How do you rate Crystal Palace’s season?
I think we’ve achieved more than most expected of us this season and we’ve overcome a very poor start to the season to climb up the table. It’s been a long season and I think the step up from the Championship is difficult for any club and Cardiff’s plight has shown that you can’t just throw money at it either.
Since we lasted talked Tony Pulis has had time to mark his mark on the team. How have you rated him? I did think he was an uninspired choice but he’s ground out results like the Chelsea match and we’ve become more resilient than we were under Holloway. He’s very much like Allardyce in that some fans aren’t overly keen on his style of play but for me I’m happy at the moment.
Do you think you’ll avoid the drop?
I think, like you, we’re not mathematically safe but in reality we are. As soon as we reach 40 points I’ll breathe a bit easier.
What are your expectations for next season?
I’d be happy for mid-table security and a League Cup run. Don’t ask me why the League Cup — I just prefer it.
What have you made of your signings this season?
We made so many signings last summer that I think that was the reason for our poor early season form. Our January signings were good though and much more strategic and improve us in key areas. Scott Dann has added some strength to our defence with Ledley and Ince running the show in midfield.
Jason Puncheon has been a highlight this season. Do you he’ll be at Selhurst next season?
I doubt it. I only hope that Southampton either haven’t been watching the last few games or really don’t rate him because I’d love to see him at the club next season.
Who should West Ham fans be wary of in the Crystal Palace team when the club’s meet?
Puncheon has been in great form of late. Tom Ince made an immediate impact and I’d like to see us keep him after his loan finishes.
What’s been your opinion of West Ham this season? I thought you’d continue to struggle once Andy Carroll came back but you’ve surprised me and I think Carroll has played his way into the World Cup squad in the process.
Which West Ham players would you have in your squad?
Diame is a player who’d fit in well at Palace along with James Tomkins at the back. Maybe he could partner Old Gabbs at centre back?!
You predicted 17th and 18th for both clubs this season. Were you a bit pessimistic?
I think I was a bit but it was impossible to tell how tight it would be at the bottom of the table and how poor some clubs would be this season. I’m pleased that both clubs will achieve mid-table obscurity.
What’s your prediction for the match?
I’ll go for 3-0 to Palace.
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