‘He surprises me every day’ – Palace boss praises defender

Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira has said Nathaniel Clyne surprises him every day as he never misses a training session.

The Frenchman has also explained why the former England international currently has the starting spot in his starting line-up.

The right-back has made 16 appearances this season in all competitions and started the last seven Premier League games in a row.

Academy graduate Clyne made four blocks – the most of any player on the pitch – in Wednesday night’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United.

“He, honestly, surprises me every day,” said Vieira of Clyne’s season so far.

“He’s always ready to go – he doesn’t miss any day of training. 

“The way he performed [vs United] is the same way that he way he is performing day after day in training.

“He has been really good for the team.”

Clyne returned to the South Londoners in 2020 under Roy Hodgson. He signed a new one-year contract extension in the summer until the end of this season.

Joel Ward, who has also played 16 times in all competitions this season, has been vying with Clyne for the starting spot in Vieira’s side.

“It’s good for the manager to have those two quality players in that position,” added the Palace manager.

“Clyney has the pace – he’s really good in the one-against-one situations.

“Wardy is really strong and also good in the one-against-one situations.

“When you have these two players, it allows you to choose the players regarding want you want and are looking for from a specific game.

“Both players have that experience of the Premier League and the demands of the higher level of the game.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD