Last summer there was a fear at Crystal Palace of the unknown, as veteran head coach Roy Hodgson left the club at the end of his contract. However, Hodgson’s exit was also accompanied by 12 first-team players also exiting at the end of their contracts.

There was no need to worry for Palace, though, as the appointment of Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira as head coach and some smart recruitment has seen an improvement in their playing style and a relatively successful campaign in the Premier League.

Palace clever in the transfer mark

The Eagles had to be smart in the summer transfer window in order to patch together a team from the remaining first-team players. The signings of the likes of Connor Gallagher, Marc Guehi, Michael Olise and Joachim Andersson transformed Palace into a team that could play football.

The signings did not cost a fortune by Premier League standards, but they showed other clubs it is possible to progress without putting the club’s finances at risk. The Palace hierarchy has done a pretty good at keeping the club on a steady financial footing, as they have obviously learned from the past owner’s mismanagement of funds.

Maiden international call-ups for youngsters

Palace fans would be beaming with pride at the sight of three of their players making their England debuts on Switzerland against Switzerland. Conor Gallagher and Marc Guehi, while left-back Tyrick Mitchell came on as a substitute. None of the trio looked out of place against good opposition.

Gallagher was particularly impressive in the centre of the park. That won’t be a massive surprise considering that the midfielder on loan from Chelsea has been superb all season, in fact, he has scored eight goals and produced six assists, which has helped Palace’s attacking efforts immensely.

Guehi looked assured defensively, as he has for much of the season for the Eagles. Mitchell was strong in his defensive efforts, while also proving an attacking threat from wing-back, including creating a chance for Harry Kane.

The trio may have only got their chance due to other players’ unavailability, but they have certainly not done their chances of selection for future call-ups any harm.

Summer signing Michael Olise also received his first call-up to the France under-21 squad. He made his debut against San Marino before sustaining a foot injury. Despite his appearance, Olise is still eligible to play for England alongside his Palace teammates.

Palace’s future looking bright

While Palace’s main aim under Hodgson was always to stay to avoid relegation and stay competitive. This season Palace’s priority aim will have been to stay up. However, the Eagles are comfortably mid-table and playing an exciting brand of football.

Not only are the Eagles seemingly safe from the spectre of relegation, but the team from the English capital also made it to the semi-finals of the FA Cup. The Eagles are certainly moving in the direction and their newly-capped young stars have played their part in this season’s campaign.

The future of Crystal Palace under Vieira looks bright. The Frenchman has the foundations of an exciting young team that not only survives in the Premier League but also thrives at the top level of the English game.

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Can Crystal Palace’s youngsters play a big part in future England squads?