Iain Dowie is sweating on the fitness of Andrew Johnson ahead of this crucial match at Blackburn, with the striker reportedly struggling with a dead leg.
However, Dowie has been talking up AJ’s chances of taking on the Rovers’ defence – so it looks likely the 19-goal hitman will be fit and ready to go.
Mikele Leigertwood and Michael Hughes may miss out as both face late fitness tests. But Dowie will surely do all he can to get the combative Hughes fit for what is sure to be a physical contest.
With that in mind, surely this game is tailor-made for the strong presence of Sandor Torghelle partnering Johnson. Expect to see Torghelle get a starting spot, unless Dowie opts to go for the tried and tested 4-5-1 formation.
Blackburn have a few injury worries – and the bluntest attack in the Premiership will be further weakened by the absence of Paul Dickov, who picked up a knee injury during Rovers’ FA Cup spanking last weekend. Jon Stead will probably replace him. Robbie Savage is also expected to miss out.
But the really good news comes from the officials line-up. Handball-blind referee Rob Styles had originally been pencilled in to take charge of this match – but no longer. Peter Walton will now be the man in the middle.
Probable Palace XI:
Kiraly
Butterfield Hall Sorondo Granville
Routledge Riihilahti Hughes Kolkka
Torghelle Johnson