Crystal Palace Premier League season preview: Wilfried Zaha in line for a return but Julian Speroni faces battle to start

Survival eventually became a formality last season and this season is all about consolidation for Palace. Avoiding relegation is the priority but the club’s transformation under Tony Pulis has raised expectations around Selhurst Park.

Pulis wants to emulate what he achieved at Stoke and take Palace to the next level. Teams will be more wary of last season’s surprise package but, under Pulis, Palace are unlikely to suffer from “second season syndrome”.

The manager is keen to change the mentality at the club and a summer upgrade of the training ground and the redevelopment of Selhurst Park have only added to the buoyant mood.

New signings Fraizer Campbell and Brede Hangeland look shrewd additions and a gruelling pre-season programme means Palace are ready to hit the ground running. Another mid-table finish would be welcomed —as would a cup run.