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Crystal Palace would secure a top-seven finish if Hodgson makes these 3 key changes at the earliest – Agreed?

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Three things Crystal Palace must do to achieve a top-seven finish

Crystal Palace have done very well in the Premier League so far this season, despite not adding too many players to their squad in the summer.

The Eagles are currently 7th in the Premier League table with 15 points after 10 games. They have been the surprise package in the English top-flight this time around, with the south Londoners earning good results against the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal.

Roy Hodgson’s men shocked Manchester United by winning 2-1 at Old Trafford in August. They came from 2-0 down to draw at the Emirates against Arsenal on Sunday, with VAR being the centre of controversy. It may have been a controversial point but a priceless one for Crystal Palace, who could possibly finish in the top 7 or even higher.

However, it’s obvious the Eagles have to do few things to achieve a top-7 finish this season. Here are those three things Hodgson must do.

1. No room for complacency

Palace have a huge battle to fight in their quest to secure a top-seven finish this season, with the likes of West Ham, Bournemouth and Wolves certain to fancy their chances.

Considering what we witnessed during the past few weeks, it is quite evident that Hodgson needs to continue with the 4-5-1 system. The system is getting the best out of Jordan Ayew and Wilfried Zaha, whilst the presence of three midfielders offering enough cover to Palace’s defence.

Even though we are just 10 games into the new season, there should be no room for complacency. Hodgson’s men must keep their head down and continue working.

2. Buy a striker in January

Hodgson’s side have performed well this campaign, but it’s quite obvious that they need to add to their squad in the upcoming transfer window to achieve a top-seven finish.

Palace have a few strikers in their ranks, with the likes of Jordan Ayew, Christian Benteke and Connor Wickham, with Ayew being the most impressive of the trio. Ayew has worked tirelessly off his socks and his performances have been rightfully rewarded as well.

The Ghanaian has four goals in nine games, with two of his strikes coming against Manchester United and Arsenal.

Nevertheless, the south London outfit are in dire need of a prolific striker to cover and compete with Ayew. It’ll be tough to get one in January but Hodgson’s topmost priority in January should lie in recruiting a centre-forward.

3. Keep hold of Wilfried Zaha

Wilfried Zaha’s future was under a lot of speculation in the summer, but in the end, he remained at Selhurst Park.

The Ivory Coast international has been Palace’s talisman in the last few seasons, helping the club retain its top-flight status. He has established himself as one of the most exciting forwards in the Premier League, more than capable of destroying teams single-handedly.

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Even though Zaha hasn’t been that effective this season, with just one assist to his name, keeping hold of him in January would be key in Palace’s hopes of achieving a top-seven finish.