Crystal Palace: First choice XI for 2016-17
By Tom Bogert
GK Steve Mandanda
What a coup this could be for Crystal Palace. Reportedly on a free transfer, no less!
As previously stated, the art of shot stopping wasn’t particularly refined for Palace, no matter who was between the pipes. As simple as it may be, having at least an adequate goalkeeper is something that’s vital to a top side. As the modern game turns more and more sophisticated, no one wants to hear the basics like this.
In the 31-year-old Mandanda, they have someone who would’ve been France’s first choice goalie if not for the existence of Hugo Lloris. Mandanda made 443 appearances for Marseille where he won one league title and three French cups. He was named Ligue 1’s goalkeeper of the four times. For Palace to secure a goalie of his stature is nothing but fantastic business.
It was rumored that Everton and Chelsea were interested as well, but it’s Palace who won his signature. Mandanda will be a huge upgrade on any incumbent keeper on that roster. It’s a phenomenal growth in the starting XI.
Mandanda has been a player long linked with making the jump from Ligue 1 to the Premier League and naturally does under L’alan Pardeaux, joining French teammate Yohan Cabaye. He’s somewhat of an arcane figure to fans who largely consume English football and dabble a bit on the international scene as he’s typically eroding on the bench for France and has spent his career in France.
Palace fans, rejoice: you have a reliable no. 1.
Next: Back four