Football Season Guide

After finishing in a lowly 17th position last term Crystal Palace boss Dougie Freedman will be hoping his side can make a greater impression on the top half of the table this term as they seek to avoid becoming embroiled in another survival battle. However, it could be another long and arduous season for the Eagles, particularly after losing the services of promising full back Nathaniel Clyne to Premier League new boys Southampton and midfield schemer Darren Ambrose moved onto pastures new with Birmingham City. Versatile defender Joel Ward has moved from cash-strapped Portsmouth and will hope to fill the shoes vacated by Clyne, while promising defender Aaron Martin has agreed a season-long loan switch from Southampton. Palace recorded a staggering 11 home draws last season and if they could transmit some of those draws into victories they may be able to ensure their Championship status sooner in 12/13.