Premier League 2018-19: 5 dark horse teams in contention for a top 6 spot this season

Jamal Lascelles of Newcastle
Jamal Lascelles of Newcastle

4. Crystal Palace

Watford v Crystal Palace - Premier League
Watford v Crystal Palace - Premier League

Crystal Palace's turnaroud under Roy Hodgson was stunning, and they would like to replicate that form and fight for the top 6 this year.

The signing of goalkeeper Vicente Guaita was a great move by the team. James Tomkins would be a key figure for them too, giving them defensive stability along with Mamadou Sakho.

Patrick Van Anholt scored 5 goals last season despite being a defender. Luka Milivojevic was another important man in the midfield, scoring 10 goals.

That said, they have to rely on Christian Benteke for goals upfront. And they will be hoping for Wilfried Zaha to stay. He was outstanding last season, scoring 9 and assisting 3.

The experience of Roy Hodgson would be key to their fight. Zaha would once again be instrumental as all the attacks start through him. They will look to Milivojevic once again this season, and will hope for Van Aanholt to continue his last season's form.

Cheikhou Kouyate has been signed to fill the void left by the departing Yohan Cabaye, and will add value with his Premier League experience. They have also signed an exciting German prospect in Max Meyer who has a lot of potential; the Eagles would be hoping for a strong season from him.

They will surely be fighting for the Top 6 if they can avoid the horrible start to the last season.

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