Iraola on team news, Kepa’s leadership qualities and Palace

Iraola confirmed forward Justin Kluivert will be available and other players “should also be fine”. However, winger Luis Sinisterra will be out.

He praised Kepa Arizabalaga and said the goalkeeper made his side “feel safe”, adding that it is not always about making great saves. Iraola pointed to Kepa’s experience as it brings “confidence and assurance” to the squad.

The Spaniard said he has determined his starting centre-back pairing for the game – but was unwilling to disclose the information.

Iraola is also happy with the points tally accrued by his players so far this season and stated that it was “one of their goals”.

On Palace: “They are coming in a great run of results. They want to control the games very well. They don’t concede a lot and they are very well organised, so it is not easy to play against them. They have individual players who can make the difference.”