Crystal Palace predicted lineup vs Hartlepool - FA Cup
By Max Parsons
Crystal Palace host League Two Hartlepool on Saturday afternoon, aiming to make it through to the fifth round of the FA Cup.
Patrick Vieira's men haven't won since knocking Millwall out of the competition in round four, although they showed plenty of spirit and commitment in a 1-1 draw at rivals Brighton before falling to a 3-1 defeat to Liverpool despite a hearty and dominant second-half performance.
Their sights are firmly set on cup progression this weekend, having to overcome a Hartlepool side that has failed to win a fourth-tier fixture since early December.
Here's how a fresh Palace squad could line up.
Crystal Palace predicted lineup vs Hartlepool
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Jack Butland (GK) - Seems to have refound some very solid form in his performances of late, and should be granted another FA Cup start here.
Joel Ward (RB) - An FA Cup runner-up with Palace in 2016, Ward played every minute of that campaign and is every bit as crucial to the side today.
Joachim Andersen (CB) - Having gone very strong in round three against Millwall, we can expect a solid lineup for this one, meaning a likely start for Andersen.
Marc Guehi (CB) - His usual partner in crime, Guehi, should be in line for a sixth consecutive start in all competitions.
Tyrick Mitchell (LB) - The 22-year-old has featured in every Crystal Palace fixture this season - it's safe to assume Vieira's a fan.
2. Midfielders
Will Hughes (DM) - Should once again be chosen as the pivot upon which the whole team functions - a role he has taken up so brilliantly in recent weeks and months.
Conor Gallagher (CM) - The insatiable bundle of energy and class that has lit up south London this campaign has two goal involvements in three appearances since returning to the fold last month.
Ebere Eze (CM) - It's been a long and sturdy road back to fitness for the youngster and he'll likely get a fourth successive appearance as Cheikhou Kouyate prepares for the Africa Cup of Nations final with Senegal.
3. Forwards
Michael Olise (RW) - Star of the show in round three with a goal and an assist in that 2-1 victory over Millwall.
Jean-Philippe Mateta (ST) - Made his loan deal permanent in January and, with current form in mind, should be rewarded with a start here.
Odsonne Edouard (LW) - Both Jordan Ayew and Wilf Zaha are back from AFCON, although Edouard along with Olise could be favoured for wide berths to combat fatigue.