Should Palace make room for Punch or will his position be in direct competition with Cabaye? How will Cabaye fit into the squad? Michael Brockman tries to work it out.
In an incredibly successful 2014/15 season for Palace, Jason Puncheon stood out as a player who made the difference in many matches. Whether it was his threat from set pieces, his licence to shoot from distance, or his fantastic close control in offensive areas, 'Punch' was arguably the most technically gifted player in the squad, and would regularly be the focal point of our attacking play.
Under the guidance of Alan Pardew, Puncheon moved from the wing and became a free spirit in the centre of the park. Being able to provide the link from midfield to attack, feeding Yannick Bolasie and Wilfried Zaha with his decisive passing, Puncheon allowed us to become an incredibly threatening team on the counter attack. He was also a huge threat from both indirect and direct free kicks- just ask David de Gea and Joe Hart! The qualities Puncheon brought to the team last season were vital in our success, which is why he will surely be one of the first names on the team sheet for the 2015/16 season.
With the arrival of Yohan Cabaye this summer, speculation has been rife over where the French international will play in the midfield. After watching some of our pre-season games, it appears that Pardew could be considering Cabaye in Puncheon's role from last season- just behind the striker. With the impossible notion of leaving a player of the calibre of club record signing Cabaye out of the starting XI, could this mean Puncheon's position is now under threat? Or does Pardew envisage a different game plan to keep both players in the team? Below are three different ideas which could make the latter option possible.
Firstly, playing Cabaye in the hole and Puncheon on the wing. While this could arguably limit Puncheon's creativity, let's not forget he did play this role to great effect while Bolasie was away at AFCON. This may mean a place on the bench for Zaha, who has proven to be an effective impact substitute in the past.
Secondly, playing Cabaye deeper- as he does on the international scene- with Puncheon in front of him in the attacking midfielder role. This really could bring out the best in both players, and certainly shows a quality core running through the middle of our XI.
Or thirdly, the two could be used as central midfielders with a licence to roam- along with the more physical Mile Jedinak playing just behind them shielding the defence- a (slightly) poor man's Xavi and Iniesta if you will.
With the obvious versatility of both players, it does seem as if we can implement different game plans depending on the opposition we are facing- so I don't necessarily think that Puncheon and Cabaye will have set roles in the team. One thing is for sure though- the thought of having these two technically gifted footballers in the same starting XI will bring music to all Palace fans' ears, and will provide a lot of excitement in the build up to the season.