Delaney backs Pulis to ensure Palace survival

Crystal Palace defender Damien Delaney is confident Tony Pulis can guide the club to safety by tightening things up at set-pieces.

The former Stoke City manager was appointed as Palace’s new boss on November 23, replacing former incumbent Ian Holloway.

Pulis’ tenure started with a 1-0 reverse at Norwich City, a result that leaves Palace bottom of the Premier League table with seven points from 13 fixtures.

However, Delaney believes the 55-year-old has the experience to ensure the club can survive in England’s top flight.

“He’s big on set-pieces because their importance in the Premier League can easily get overlooked,” said Delaney.

“Last weekend, for example, 40 per cent of all goals came from set-pieces and we know from bitter experience that we’ve given ourselves a mountain to climb too many times through conceding from free-kicks, penalties, corners and long throws.

“We’ll give ourselves a real chance if we can stop conceding those goals.”

Pulis will take charge of his first home game at Palace when West Ham visit on Tuesday.