Palace Problems

By Kevin Bethell
March 5 2003

Crystal Palace boss Trevor Francis has a number of injury and suspension worries ahead of his sides trip to Pride Park to take on Derby tonight.

Crystal Palace boss Trevor Francis has a number of injury and suspension worries ahead of his sides trip to Pride Park to take on Derby tonight.

Aki Riihilahti and Andy Johnson are definitely out injured, Shaun Derry is a doubt and Dougie Freedman is suspended as The Eagles look to get their faltering playoffs bid back on track.

Having only picked up 3 points this year Francis knows his side must put together a run of wins if they are to stand any chance of climbing into the top 6 , Francis told the Evening Standard "We have left ourselves with plenty to do. There are still 42 points available, but it is a big ask to get into the play-offs now".

"We desperately need someone to start scoring because it is starting to affect our confidence. Frustration is starting to set in and we need to be more creative." Francis added