Crystal Palace have endured a turbulent start to their Premier League campaign and currently sit in 16th place, just one point off the bottom three.A shocking October saw them lose all three matches and they have since been defeated at Burnley, so there's no arguing they're in some poor form at the moment.That said, City haven't performed miracles either recently, with only one Premier League win to their name from the last five matches.Stats like this give credence to the idea that their meeting on Saturday is unlikely to be a thriller.However, the Eagles will be hopeful that their power and strength in the attacking areas can cause damage to City's somewhat ropy back line.With most of the City squad returning from international duty, Pardew will believe this is a real opportunity for Palace to gain at least a point. Here are three reasons why.
Palace stars will be fresh
Unlike their City counterparts, most of the Palace squad will be refreshed and ready following the international break.Very few of the Palace squad were called up to play for the national team, with star striker Christian Benteke the most notable exception.Even thought the Belgian was called up, however, he didn't get a minute during their games against Estonia and the Netherlands - so he should still be raring to go.City, on the other hand, will be aware that the majority of their experienced pros have been subjected to international matches such as Sergio Aguero, who had to travel to South America for Argentina's gruelling defeat against Brazil.Their magic man in midfield, David Silva, is also a doubt after suffering a toe injury whilst training with the Spain squad.Add all of these things together and its Palace who enter the game in better shape.
City still reeling from draw with Boro
City had gone six games without victory before they put West Brom to the sword, beating the Baggies 4-0. They followed up the victory with a huge win against Barcelona, triumphing 3-1 at the Etihad Stadium.Most fans and pundits alike thought the Sky Blues had turned the corner but alas, it wasn't to be. With City seemingly in control of proceedings against Middlesbrough, the ball fell to George Friend in the 90th minute, who provided a wonderful cross for Martin De Roon to nod in the unlikeliest of equalisers.Unlike his usual self, Guardiola appeared riled by the injustice of not holding on to a much-deserved victory. Instead, it was more dropped points at home for City, who have drawn three consecutive games at the Etihad Stadium for the first time since 2009.It also means they've failed to keep a clean sheet in nine of their eleven league games this season. [ad_pod id='playwire' align='center']
The crowd will be buzzing
Crystal Palace have always been seen as one of the best clubs in the Premier League in terms of atmosphere.The Palace 'ultras' sing from minute one to minute 90 and really intimidate the opposition.Some of you may be thinking that if the crowd is always bouncing, why is Palace's home record so poor - losing three and winning just one of their five home games this season.However, big clubs do not enjoy travelling to Selhurst Park because the fans are so close to the players, making it a difficult place to play your own football. The Eagles will be hopeful of making a fast start to get the fans onside.