Alan Pardew: Tony Pulis deserves a good reception from Crystal Palace fans

Pulis is back in south London for the first time since he dramatically resigned as Eagles boss immediately before the start of this season.

The last minute decision plunged Palace into crisis and his reputation at Selhurst Park would have been even more tarnished if Pardew had not repeated the success of last season and transformed the club’s fortunes since January.

And the current Palace manager said: “Tony’s return adds an extra dimension in so much as he achieved fantastic results here last season. 

“For sure I wouldn’t be here and a lot of these players wouldn’t be here if he hadn’t done that, so we are thankful to him.

“He should also be thankful that we are in the position we are in, and that the players and myself have got the team where it is – because the reception tomorrow could have been very different if we were in the relegation zone and leaving so shortly before the season started.

“I think that is good for him and he deserves that. Hopefully tomorrow he gets the reception that he warrants.”

Pulis, himself, is determined to ensure this is the last relegation battle the Baggies find themselves after a string of survival scraps in recent years.

He said: “I actually think that’s something to do with it. I really do. The club has witnessed it too many times since they’ve been promoted. 

“What you hope is that you get through this and you change that situation so it doesn’t happen again.”