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Crystal Palace: Slack defense putting Alan Pardew’s job at risk

By Larry Henry

SWANSEA, WALES - NOVEMBER 26: Wilfried Zaha of Crystal Palace sits dejected after the final whistle during the Premier League match between Swansea City and Crystal Palace at Liberty Stadium on November 26, 2016 in Swansea, Wales. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
SWANSEA, WALES - NOVEMBER 26: Wilfried Zaha of Crystal Palace sits dejected after the final whistle during the Premier League match between Swansea City and Crystal Palace at Liberty Stadium on November 26, 2016 in Swansea, Wales. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) /
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Crystal Palace are currently in the worst form of any Premier League club. Subsequently, the position of manager Alan Pardew is quickly coming into serious questioning.

Crystal Palace have relied on their strong defense to be successful in past Premier League campaigns. So far in 2016-17, that past strength has been the club’s biggest weakness. Alan Pardew’s South London side are currently 17th in the league table and are only above the relegation zone due to goal difference.

The Eagles have now lost six league matches in a row after losing a 5-4 thriller against Swansea City on Saturday. After going up 4-3 with around six minutes to go, Palace’s sloppy defending allowed two stoppage-time tap-ins for Swansea’s Fernando Llorente.

Seeming content with the lead, Palace defensively switched off at the back. A mistake which saw them drop three crucial points on the road. Pardew’s job is now in danger and he is expected to meet with Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish in the next day or so to go over his future with the club, according to the Guardian.

Although, Pardew is expected to remain as manager ahead of Palace’s game against Southampton on Saturday. A big problem has been the team’s failure to close games out. In their last three defeats, Palace have given up a winning goal in the 80th minute or later to their opponents.

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During their current run of six defeats, they have also been outscored 18-10. A lack of consistent scoring has hurt Palace, but sluggish defending has been the main issue. Six different defenders have started for Pardew this season in league-play, which has been different than in years past.

Scott Dann and Damien Delaney are big aerial threats but have made mistakes defensively from time-to-time. James Tomkins’ arrival from West Ham before deadline day bolstered the back-line, but he is now just syncing with the other defenders.

Martin Kelly and Joel Ward have started at full back, but have failed to really help offensively. However, there is talent at Pardew’s disposal, its really just getting all of the players to play as one unit. Mental mistakes cannot be afforded. While leads need to be held onto, especially with the busy December month approaching.

Home matches against Manchester United and Chelsea will be tough, but Selhurst Park always provides a raucous atmosphere for visiting teams. Fundamentals and defensive drills at the training ground are expected by Pardew’s staff to saw away at the team’s recent struggles.

Next: West Ham United: Lack of scorers, flare the problem?

The former Newcastle boss feels like the right man for the job, and the heart of the team cannot be doubted for what they have done in the past. Regardless, fans and owners want to see victories and starting this Saturday.

Pardew can ease his own job fears and start afresh with a win over an in-form Saints at Selhurst Park.

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