Crystal Palace have fended off interest from Everton and other interested parties to keep their talisman Wilfried Zaha. However, the Ivorian is looking likely to miss the clash at Selhurst Park following a long summer of transfer speculation. As a result, it is likely that his absence is what will dominate proceedings – should he not feature – making for a tense affair for the opening game of the season.
A Tense Game Between Crystal Palace And Everton
Opening Day Form
It is the visitors who boast the better record on the opening day over the past five seasons. They have drawn four and won one of their last five opening games, and the last time they suffered defeat in their first game of the season was the 2011/12 campaign.
In contrast, Crystal Palace have lost three of their last five of their opening games. However, last season did see them endure a change of fortunes, as they won 2-0 away at Fulham.
Team News
Roy Hodgson confirmed that he will be without three key first team players ahead of the game at Selhurst Park. Centre-backs Mamadou Sakho and James Tomkins will both be missing, as well as versatile midfielder Jeffrey Schlupp. As a result, it may cause new signing Gary Cahill to fill in at the back.
However, on a positive note for Palace, all three players that participated in the African Cup of Nations will be available. This means that Cheikhou Kouyate, Jordan Ayew and Wilfried Zaha could feature, although there remains doubt over Zaha.
There will be two absentees for Marco Silva’s Everton. Summer signing Fabian Delph misses out through injury. Deadline-day signing Alex Iwobi misses out after failing to register him before midday deadline on Thursday August 8.
Crystal Palace v Everton Predictions
Whether key man Wilfried Zaha figures for Crystal Palace will be the major talking point at Selhurst Park on Saturday. However, with unrest in the dressing room at Selhurst Park, Everton could capitalise and take the three points.
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