Three things that we learnt from Crystal Palace’s victory over Middlesbrough

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Steve Mandanda could be the signing of the summer

He joined Crystal Palace for a reasonably low fee during the summer and was a signing that went under the radar. It was a coup for the South London club, as he is a French international and has been one of the best goalkeepers in Ligue 1 over the last few years. He is a Champions League calibre player and strengthens a position that was one of Palace’s weakest last season. Wayne Hennessey was okay, but made several costly errors and isn’t good enough to be a number one for a Premier League side.

Against Middlesbrough, he made several key saves, including a great one-on-one stop to prevent Alvaro Negredo before half-time. His experience is vital and he helps organise the back four. At times last season, Palace’s defence looked nervous as they didn’t have total faith in Hennessey. That won’t be the case with Mandanda as he is a calming influence. He also showed that he is confident coming for crosses and has already adapted to the physicality of the Premier League. The Frenchman could be the best signing this summer.

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