After Alan Pardew’s departure three days before Christmas, followed by ex-England manager Sam Allardyce taking the reins at Selhurst Park, it’s already been a busy winter for Crystal Palace.
With Palace having the worst points-per-game record across all of England’s top four divisions in 2016, it’s not surprising that a managerial change had to be made; and now Allardyce’s first job will be to invest in January to help his new side steer clear of relegation trouble.
After a run of only one win in eleven games has left Palace precariously placed a point above the drop-zone at Christmas, the Eagles need impact players to come into the Club.
Here at The Boot Room we look at three players that could help Palace’s battle for survival…
James McCarthy
According to recent reports, Everton midfielder James McCarthy could want out of Goodison Park in January, with Palace one of the sides interested in signing the 26-year-old.
McCarthy, who picked up an injury during the Merseyside Derby loss to Liverpool, is allegedly unhappy under Ronald Koeman and is aiming to find a new side in January.
Palace’s midfield this season hasn’t been as solid as their first few Premier League campaigns – with Alan Pardew using James McArthur and Joe Ledley as the two central midfielders – and a move for McCArthy could add a bit of bite and determination to Selhurst Park.
McCarthy’s international experience with the Republic of Ireland could prove priceless in a battle to avoid relegation too, adding an element of composure, whilst his tendency to sit back would allow Palace’s attacking options of Andros Townsend and Wilfried Zaha more room to attack.