EAGLES FLYING
FORMER Eagle Geoff Thomas is backing Crystal Palace’s young guns to fire with England.
The call-up of Conor Gallagher and Marc Guehi for the friendlies against Switzerland and the Ivory Coast was the first time since
1991 that the club had two players in an England squad.
Tyrick Mitchell then made it three when he was brought in by Gareth Southgate after injuries to Trent Alexander-Arnold and
Reece James.
Back in 1991, it was Thomas and John Solako who forced their way into England’s plans.
Such is the quality of the current Palace crop, though, that Thomas believes this could be the start of a golden generation of young talent, who have shone under Patrick Vieira this season.
“There’s some real talent in this Palace squad,” said Thomas. “There’s an exceptional crop of youngsters.
“All those years ago, there was a similar group of really talented players coming through – Ian Wright, John Solako, Andy Gray, Nigel Martyn. And I think that’s happening at the club again now. “You can build with youngsters. It’s exciting times. I’m not sure the Palace fans can quite believe what they’ve seen this season.
“And now these guys have the chance to show they’ve got what it takes to play international football as well.”