Crystal Palace have been a stable name in the Premier League since gaining promotion in 2013.
They have consistently been mid-table or relegation survivors.
The 2023-24 season however was a tale of two contrasting forms under two different managers and Afrosport reviews how it all went.
Overall Review
Crystal Palace began the season with Roy Hodgson who was brought in March 2023 for a second spell after a poor run of results under Patrick Vieira.
The club decided to stick with the 76-year-old for 2023-24 but things did not go well as the hierarchy would have liked and replaced him with Oliver Glasner.
Palace’s form has been so impressive ever since the Austrian took charge and makes things look promising for the future at Selhurst Park.
Unsung Hero
Joachim Andersen
The Danish centre-back has been ever-present for Crystal Palace this season, playing every minute of every game.
Such is no mean feat in a season where lots of players including defenders have carried lengthy injuries across different teams.
Andersen’s solidity will definitely be of great importance to the Eagles in the coming seasons.
Manager
Roy Hodgson/Oliver Glasner
Crystal Palace started the season decently but a run of poor results between November and February when they were only able to register two wins out of 13 games, losing eight, ultimately cost Hodgson his job as relegation was lurking.
Oliver Glasner, who won the UEFA Europa League in 2022 with Eintracht Frankfurt, however came in and has steadied the ship with Palace playing a better brand of football which has resulted in more wins including victories against Liverpool, West Ham United, Newcastle United and Manchester United, all of which have secured their survival for next season.
Possible areas for reinforcement
Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze have been the major attacking force for Palace this season with 27 goal contributions between them (19 goals, eight assists).
Their future at Selhurst Park is however not certain as they have drawn interest from some of the Premier League’s bigger sides.
A departure of either or both players will mean Glasner must delve in the market to purchase players who have the kind of skill set the duo possess.
Tactical selection options
Start one: Jean-Philippe Mateta
Bench one: Odsonne Edouard
Sell one: Jordan Ayew
