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Should Alan Pardew’s Crystal Palace focus on the FA Cup for these reasons?
1 – Nothing to lose
Despite the recent rut, Palace are unlikely to be in a relegation scrap come May. At the same time, they are equally as unlikely to be in contention for a Europa League spot too. Being only eight points from the magical 40 point mark in March, the Eagles look set for a mid table finish this season if the club pick up a few more wins in the league.
Playing a full strength squad in the cup should be expected considering it is Palace’s best bet at leaving a significant mark on this season. If Pardew is faced with tired players, it may be in his interest to bench them in the league instead of the FA Cup as modern managers tend to do.
2 – European football
With an FA Cup title comes a ticket to the Europa League if the champion has not already qualified for Europe. Sitting eight points off those coveted European qualification spots, the FA Cup is Palace’s best chance at a campaign in Europe.
With the least difficult; but by no means easy, fixture at the Madjeski, Crystal Palace’s chances of getting to Wembley are high. Once in the semi-finals, any team has a genuine shot at glory and Palace sure have the energy and desire on their day.