After picking up two points from a possible nine in the opening weeks of the new Premier League campaign, Crystal Palace host Tottenham Hotspur in the Saturday lunchtime kick-off over the weekend.
The Eagles recovered from a 3-0 opening day defeat at the hand of European champions Chelsea to hold both Brentford and West Ham United to draws, showing signs of promise under new manager Patrick Vieira.
However, the Frenchman may be concerned about his side’s lack of goals before the international break, despite their improved performances.
A 1-0 loss to Watford in the Carabao Cup second round meant that the Eagles failed to score in their first three outings under Vieira in all competitions before a Conor Gallagher brace against the Hammers broke their duck.
Nevertheless, the lack of clearcut opportunities that Palace are creating will still be cause for concern for the former New York City and Nice coach.
As per SofaScore, the Eagles have only created 1.3 big chances per game so far in 2021/22 and have averaged just five shots per game, highlighting their struggles in the final third of the pitch.
The solution to their struggles could be a rather simple one, though. Former Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard arrived at Selhurst Park on transfer deadline day in a deal which could be worth up to £18.5m.
Should Edouard start against Spurs?
Yes, definitely!
No way!
During his time in Scottish football, the £70,000-per-week magician established himself as one of the most promising young strikers in European football, and his underlying numbers for this season indicate that he could have a huge impact at Palace.
Edouard averaged 3.3 shots and 2.3 key passes per league game for Celtic in the early weeks of the current campaign before making the switch to Palace, while also creating three big chances.
The highly-rated 23-year-old also continued to demonstrate his fantastic end product to go with his skill, bagging two goals and providing one assist for the Hoops in his last four league appearances for the club.
Therefore, Vieira must start his compatriot against Spurs on Saturday, providing his charges with the natural goalscorer and cutting edge they so desperately require in the final third.
In other news… Journalist reveals exciting Crystal Palace transfer update which will have fans buzzing