Saints Marching
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Crystal Palace vs Southampton 01/09/18: Opposition threat

By Harry Tizard

WATFORD, ENGLAND - AUGUST 26: Wilfried Zaha of Crystal Palace celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Watford FC and Crystal Palace at Vicarage Road on August 26, 2018 in Watford, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
WATFORD, ENGLAND - AUGUST 26: Wilfried Zaha of Crystal Palace celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Watford FC and Crystal Palace at Vicarage Road on August 26, 2018 in Watford, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) /
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SWANSEA, WALES – AUGUST 28: Aaron Wan-Bissaka of Crystal Palace is challenged by Matt Grimes of Swansea City during the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Swansea City and Crystal Palace at Liberty Stadium on August 28, 2018 in Swansea, Wales. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
SWANSEA, WALES – AUGUST 28: Aaron Wan-Bissaka of Crystal Palace is challenged by Matt Grimes of Swansea City during the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Swansea City and Crystal Palace at Liberty Stadium on August 28, 2018 in Swansea, Wales. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) /

Aaron Wan-Bissaka

Talented young full back Wan-Bissaka is the third man that I believe Saints fans should have their eyes on. The Crystal Palace man is now a mainstay in the Eagles defence after his professional debut in February of this year after a string of impressive performances during what could be considered an injury crisis at the club – taking the place of former Portsmouth player Joel Ward.

His ability to contribute on both the defensive set up and attacking plays in the Palace system has added such quality to the eagles system.

On the defensive side, Wan-Bisska has averaged over 4.5 clearances a game, 4.1 tackles, and 2.1 interceptions. This is a high improvement when compared to Joel Wards, 3.2 clearances, 1.8 tackles, and 1.5 interceptors – clearing adding quality to a regimented Roy Hodgson defence.

The offensive side of his game is also competent. When compared to his full back partner Patrick Van Aanholt and Joel Ward, Bissaka attempts more dribbles and more crosses a game. Looking at these stats, it’s clear to see the 20 year old is confident in his own abilities, wanting to get past his defensive counter parts. The future England star will be a particular threat down the wings due to the fact that Bertrand likes to push forward in attack’s – leaving space in behind for Bissaka to get into and make the most of.

The game against Southampton will be his first league appearance since his dismissal against Liverpool- so will be more keen that ever to show his worth in front of the Palace faithful.

Next. Crystal Palace vs Southampton: Preview and Predictions. dark