The Premier League Game of Thrones
By Ryan Wrenn
Alan Pardew – Crystal Palace
Projected Finish: 11th
How’d he do?
Where to begin with Pardew? After enduring harsh fan criticism and uneven support from the ownership at Newcastle for the first half of the season, he made the move to Palace in early January. Since then, he has presided over one of the most impressive runs of form by any club in the Premier League. Beyond securing Palace’s place in the Premier League next season, he’s transformed the club into a legitimate mid-table contender for years to come. The last two week’s of poor performances will do nothing to take away from his early success.
Season Highlight: It’s tempting to list their home win against Manchester City, but at this rate every mid-to-low table team on this list would feature such a victory. The magisterial 4-1 destruction of Sunderland from a couple weeks ago will have to do instead.
Season Lowlight: The 0-2 loss to a West Brom side coached by Tony Pulis, last season’s savior at Crystal Palace
Future?
Definitely In. Like Mourinho, it’s Pardew’s check to cash. His combined managerial performance between Newcastle and Crystal Palace would place him on the low end of European qualification this season, so an upgrade to a bigger club might be tempting. Pardew stuck with Newcastle for three and a half years despite the aforementioned pressure though, so there’s a good chance that he stays at Palace if only to bask in the praise a bit longer.