After a disastrous start to the season, Crystal Palace found some consistency earlier in the year and managed to push themselves out of the drop zone. However, they are just two points above safety, struggling at 16th place, and are in desperate need to finish the season on a strong note to retain their top-flight status.
The Eagles’ game against Liverpool after the international break is their toughest in the run until the end of the season and Roy Hodgson will believe that his side can finish close to the top half of the table.
But he will need his players bang in form for the rest of the season and here are three of them, who could be crucial Palace’s survival:
#3 Wilfried Zaha
The English winger missed more than a month of action due to an injury but is finally back to full fitness and it is already showing in their game. He is easily the best player in the and his form will be crucial for Palace’s future in the top flight.
Zaha can win games on his own and is one of the best in the league when it comes to creating something out of nothing. With Benteke and Sorloth up front, Zaha could play a key role in not only scoring a few but also assisting the two big men up front.
#2 Christian Benteke
The former Liverpool striker has been one of the biggest flops for Palace this season but remains the best choice to lead the line for his side.
He is usually effective against Liverpool, judging by his record against the Reds while playing for Aston Villa and Palace, and could have an instant impact after the international break.
His goal scoring form will have a serious effect on Palace’s chances for the rest of the season. With the likes of Zaha and Townsend also finding some form, Benteke quickly needs to step up his game and help his side to some wins late in the campaign.
#1 Luka Milivojevic
The Serbian international has been one of the most consistent players for Hodgson this season and is one of the first names on the team sheet. His tenacity at the middle of the park along with his ability to set up his team on counters will be important for Palace against the lower teams.
He will need an able partner to get the best out of him but Hodgson will definitely believe that Milivojevic can handle the pressure and come out triumphant in this crunch time.