TOTTENHAM is undoubtedly a tough start for Palace but I think it's one of those games that could go either way, especially with the uncertainty around their best player potentially leaving the club.
You don't how much the speculation around Bale will affect the dressing room. Hopefully, Palace can capitalise on this uncertainty.
I also thought Spurs were one of the most entertaining teams in the Premier League last season, but they play very open, whereas Palace showed in the play-offs what a good counter-attacking side they can be.
I remember as a player that we always dreaded facing Arsenal – we never seemed to have a great record against them. But Spurs was a game we looked forward to and always fancied getting a result in.
We always seemed to have a decent record against them, especially at White Hart Lane, though I remember one game where I was marking Gary Lineker and he scored a hat-trick. Probably best not to dwell on that!
I think Palace still need to strengthen the squad all round.
As for the key player this season? Well, I hope it's not the goalkeeper. Julian Speroni has been a fantastic servant but we don't want him to be too busy.
Whoever plays up front is going to be the key. Goals are so vital to staying in the Premier League. You might come across a striker with the magic touch, or perhaps a midfield player can chip in – you just need goals.
A prediction for Sunday? I fancy Palace to win 2-1. As I said, Tottenham play open football and Palace might just be able to play on that uncertainty surrounding Bale.
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