Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew heaps praise on Peter Crouch ahead of Stoke clash

ALAN PARDEW has described Peter Crouch as one of the most lethal frontmen in the Premier League.

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Pardew has warned his Palace squad about the threat that Crouch poses

Pardew’s Crystal Palace take on Crouch’s Stoke today and the Eagles boss said: “He is a terrific front player. He can play up on his own as the perfect targetman or with a partner. He will always be a threat in whatever system.”

Stoke, eighth in the table with 42 points, have become one of the most physical sides in the League and will present another test of the character for Palace, who have won five of their six away games under Pardew.

“I’ve warned the players we face a firestorm,” he said. “Stoke’s results at home have been terrific, so our strategy has got to be the right one. We have to get it into our heads this will be a very tough match.

“Stoke have had a great season and we have a long way to go before we get anywhere near what they have achieved.”

Noisy Palace fans crucial - Pardew [AMBIENT]

Pardew is hoping that with club-sponsored free travel for Eagles fans, his side will respond in one of the most atmospheric stadiums in the league.

“I just hope they make a lot of noise,” he said. “We cannot afford to relax, we all know it will be tight to stay up, it is always more difficult in the second season after you have survived.”

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