Leicester v Palace – Team news preview

Last updated : 07 April 2006 By Nik Taylor

Palace have a boost ahead of tonight's trip to the Walkers Stadium with the news that striker Andrew Johnson will definitely be fit to start.

The Eagles' top scorer was forced off in the second half of last week's home win over Watford after a collision with Hornets keeper Ben Foster.

But AJ has made a full recovery from that head injury, and will be available for selection tonight. Iain Dowie has plenty more options up front now, what with Dougie Freedman getting on the scoresheet last week and Jon Macken having returned from injury.

Defender Danny Butterfield also makes a welcome return to the squad after recovering from a long-term injury.

The match, which is live on Sky Sports, is a massive one for Palace. Victory will take Iain Dowie's side up to third place in the league - just six points behind Sheffield United - ahead of tomorrow's full round of matches.

Leicester will be missing defender Richard Stearman and keeper Rab Douglas. However, Paddy McCarthy, Patrick Kisnorbo and Joey Gudjonsson are all back for the Foxes.

Probable Palace XI:

Kiraly
Hall Ward Popovic Boyce
McAnuff Hughes Watson Reich
Johnson Morrison