Crystal Palace midfielder Jefferson Lerma is an integral part of Roy Hodgson’s squad although, the 29-year-old could be even more important to the Eagles tonight against Everton.
Crystal Palace face a huge battle this evening as the Eagles travel to Goodison Park to play relegation-threatened Everton in the hunt for three important points.
The two sides are both in dire need of a win in what is expected to be Roy Hodgson’s final game officially in charge of Palace, with Oliver Glasner poised to take over from the 76-year-old.
Despite the occasion speculated to mark the Englishman’s final game at the helm of his Palace squad, the veteran will not be on the touchline due to illness, with Paddy McCarthy and Ray Lewington stepping in to cover.
Crystal Palace team news vs Everton
Three points are a must for both teams tonight, although it is set to be a huge challenge for the visitors, who will be without seven players due to injury.
As highlighted in our injury roundup earlier today, a host of crucial players will be absent from Palace’s lineup, with Will Hughes now expected to join the likes of Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise on the sidelines.
There’s a lot of speculation over how the Eagles will lineup this evening although one name is not to be debated when it comes to making the teamsheet.
Why Jefferson Lerma will be crucial for Crystal Palace against Everton
From his heroics on a weekly basis to his astounding strike against Chelsea last week, Jefferson Lerma has quickly become a fan favourite at Selhurst Park.
The Colombian, who was once lauded as “incredible” for his contribution in midfield by Scott Parker, is a difficult force to overcome in the engine room at Palace, even more so in the absence of Chieck Doucoure.
Tonight, however, the 29-year-old could have another Doucoure to worry about other than the fitness of his teammate, with Everton jewel Abdoulaye Doucoure in contention to return for the Toffees.
Not only is the 31-year-old Everton’s top scorer in the Premier League this season, but he’s also an impressive creative outlet for Sean Dyche’s side, averaging 1.3 key passes per game in the league, via WhoScored.
With the Mali international rumoured to return this evening, Lerma’s presence will be even more important in limiting the threat that Doucoure can create.
Expected to be partnered with the inexperienced, but impressive, Adam Wharton, the £70k-a-week gem will need to be at his best for the Eagles, in a match where the dynamic in midfield could be critical to the result.
