Crystal Palace have enjoyed a mixed summer under Alan Pardew, but that hasn’t dampened the spirit of the Palace faithful here in the Football Transfer Tavern ahead of the new season…
With a deal for Chrstian Benteke seemingly on the way, our Landlord has set the Palace punters here in the Tavern a little challenge.
Crystal Palace’s need for a striker has been evident all summer – but how exactly will the Belgian fit into Alan Pardew’s team?
He’s decided to mix this one up a bit, and instead of picking a full team – he’s asked them to reduce the squad size down to everybody’s favourite game variant – the five a side team.
So with that, who – alongside Benteke – would make it into Crystal Palace’s 5-a side squad?
GK – Julian Speroni
The Argentine shot stopper has impressed for Palace and would certainly take the spot between the sticks.
He’s strong, quick and agile making him difficult to get past even in such a high intensity and end-to-end 5-aside match.
He’s also good with his feet – which is particularly useful in a five a side environment.
CB – Yohan Cabaye
A very questionable shout from the Palace faithful here in the Tavern.
The French centre mid has always had something special to his game.
He’s a solid tackler, passer and has lethal shooting ability to boot.
His ability to cover a lot of ground defensively and then spring a counter-attack would make him a key part of any 5-aside team.
Despite being a natural midfielder, we think he would fit right in at the back.
CM – Andros Townsend
The new summer signing from Newcastle provides a lot of energy, skill and a quality finish as well.
His attacking mind-set and his finishing ability is something that makes him ideal to change from defence to attack in a matter of seconds, something that is key in 5-aside.
His electric pace combined with his excellent dribbling will make him unstoppable in this environment.
CM – Wilfred Zaha
Zaha’s pace, skillful ability and his never say-die attitude makes him an ideal part to any 5-aside team.
His energy along with his pace would aid him in getting up and down the small space with ease.
This is going to be a BIG year for young Zaha.
ST – Christian Benteke
Benteke’s strength and finishing ability would make for a great forward player in 5-aside match, especially teaming up with the Palace players chosen here.
He’d be able to hold the ball up with ease whilst Zaha and Townsend find space to work their magic or he could bully his way to goal himself.
Our landlord reckons there might be nobody better to lead the line in a 5 a side environment – agreed?
