Boss of Leeds United, Javi Gracia, immediately called his players “the main heroes” after they achieved a strong-willed victory over Nottingham Forest, bringing the third success in just six Premier League games since the Spaniard took over as manager. This positive result pushed the “Whites” to 13th place ahead of the weekend, although they are only two points away from the relegation zone, the battle for survival is far from over. “Elland Road” was the place where Gracia achieved most of his success: seven of his ten points were earned in a continuing three-game unbeaten home streak in the EPL. Further boosting the confidence of the “Peacocks” is that they have won all of their home meetings with Crystal Palace since the 2006/07 season. Today, Adams, Dallas, Forshaw, and Vober, who has a muscle injury, will not be able to play.
Roy Hodgson’s controversial reappointment as boss of Crystal Palace immediately paid off as his first game ended in a dramatic 2-1 victory over Leicester. This success ended a turbulent run of 13 games without a win in all competitions and lifted them to the top of a group of eight teams separated by just five points between 12th and 19th places before this round. Furthermore, the new tactics were immediately reflected in the stats of the Eagles’ last game, as they registered 31 shots towards the goal, with nine on target, something that many fans of the London club cannot remember happening in recent times. Today, Ferguson, Richards, Zaha, and Guaita, who has a leg injury, will not take to the football field.
