Written by @martinbackhouse

I was frustrated that Michail Antonio, once again, didn’t get a run out for England during the International break. I guess he’s fresh for the weekend though, which is a bonus. What a game this is on Saturday. We need a positive result, there’s no hiding that fact. Will we get it? If last season was anything to go by, yes we can! After this season’s start? I still think we can!

Palace have won just one of their last four top-flight meetings with us, whereas we’ve enjoyed two wins in a row in the Premier League against them. We’re 13/5 to grab all three points at Selhurst Park. Tempting as that is, a draw cannot be overlooked given our current form, thus 8/11 on us or a draw in the Double Chance market with Betway might be the smart way to go.

We all remember that sublime dink over the onrushing keeper from Dimi last season. He scored both home and away last term against Palace and he’s 15/2 to score first on Saturday, 11/4 anytime. Let’s also not forget that Manuel Lanzini scored in both games against the Eagles last season and you can get him 9/1 to bag the opener, 100/30 anytime.

One bet to cast your eye over in this one is the possibility of a sending off. Unfortunately our sponsors aren’t offering this market as I’m writing this, but plenty of other firms are offering a good price on there being a red. Kouyate saw red in April, Gayle the previous October and Glenn Murray in February 2015; three reds in a row.

Since Christian Benteke’s league debut back in 2012, only Olivier Giroud has scored as many headed goals in the competition as the Belgian striker. They’re a huge threat in the air and we need to be on top of our game to shut them out. I personally see goals in this and a bet of some value could well be to back us or the draw in the Double Chance and Both Teams to Score market with Betway at 13/8.

I remain optimistic for the rest of the season and I sincerely hope we nick a win against Pardew’s men. I hope James Tomkins gets a great reception from the travelling fans, but I hope he’s disappointed come 7:30pm. Good luck with your weekend bets. COYI