Defensive Frailties for Crystal Palace to Address

Article by e-Crystal Palace Correspondent Paul Spicer

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There is no doubt in my mind that come kick off on 16th August our defensive line up will look a lot more solid than it does now, but as it stands, I am a worried supporter.

Pullis is renowned for building a solid back line from his days at Stoke, with the likes of Shawcross and Huth forming a formidable partnership through much of his tenure. In January, Pullis secured the services of Dann, which provided the catalyst to secure our Premier League safety, but a lot more work is needed if we are to progress this coming season. Currently, there is no recognized left back, which is a major concern and I was a little bit surprised when they released Parr on a free. Parr was a good performer and an adequate reserve if someone got injured but alas, not our managers cup of tea. Ward, who was my personal player of the season, did a sterling job filling the left back void but I would much rather see him in his natural right back position.

So who should we be looking at? There a few realistic targets that would be in our price range as well as our wage bracket. My personal picks:

Aaron Cresswell (Ipswich): quoted as the best left back outside the premiership. At an estimated value of 4-5 million, a good deal. If they ask for ridiculous money, we could loan back Joniester to sweeten the pot, which may suit both parties. Personally I do not want Joniester to go and I hope he gets a lot more first team appearances this campaign.

Ryan Bertrand (Chelsea): possibly the most expensive left back on offer but a very good player, and if the funds are available, my number one transfer target.

Danny Rose (Spurs): another quality left back who has endless energy. Spurs, under new management, may be reluctant to off load him as he will suit Pochettino’s fast style of football, but if they do I hope we are in the frame.

James Husband (Doncaster): an up and coming left back at 20 years of age, available around the million pound mark, so very affordable, would even be a good back up buy at that price.

Riise (on a free): A has-been, too old and slow these days.

I am happy with our keepers now and would prefer to buy two left backs and a centre half. If Crystal Palace can buy Caulker and Bertrand for 12-13 million for the pair I will be overjoyed but for now all I can do, like most Palace supporters, is speculate and live in perpetual hope.

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