Maxence Lacroix: Crystal Palace players’ strong faith system helping them achieve success on pitch

Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix reckons that the strong faith in their squad is helping them make strides in both the Premier League and FA Cup.

The Eagles are into the semi-finals of the latter competition after a 3-0 win at Fulham yesterday.

Lacroix has been a big hit since signing from Wolfsburg in the summer.

“In this team we have a lot of people who trust in Jesus Christ,” he told Palace TV. “I was praying and I feel like we have this togetherness because it’s a big family.

“Today before the game we took the time to say thank you Jesus – we don’t play for us we play for you. Everyone knows on this pitch it is not only 11 or 12 – it is 13. Us, the fans and God, so it is perfect.”

Lacroix will experience playing at Wembley in a last-four tie against Aston Villa.

Asked about the prospect of running out at England’s national stadium, the Frenchman said: “Yeah, really exciting – it’s unbelievable. We have an unbelievable team and we have unbelievable fans. Everyone deserves to go to Wembley. I don’t think it is the end. We go to Wembley to win and we want to get two times to Wembley and hopefully win this trophy.”

Palace’s players enjoyed the result over Fulham at the full-time whistle with their travelling support.

“This is the DNA of Palace,” said Lacroix. “We need to be with the fans. The players are with the fans and the fans are with the players – this is why we win.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD