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23. Scott Dann
Scott Dann rightfully earned a place in Garth Crooks’ team of the week for the end of August for his gritty performance in a 1-1 draw with Bournemouth. The Englishman scored a divine, headed equaliser in that clash deep into injury time to salvage a draw and save the Eagles from what could have been a very sticky situation; defeat would have left them rock bottom and pointless heading into the international break.
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It’s certainly not been a month to remember for Palace, but the 29-year-old has looked arguably their most consistent performer at the back. As well as the goal, he has made an average of 6 clearances and 5 interceptions per game across the London side’s opening three fixtures.
The centre-half also sprang up with a goal in the club’s only win of the season so far, scoring in their 2-0 victory over Blackpool in second round of the League Cup.
Tony Pulis’ side may have received a chorus of boos following their goalless draw with Middlesbrough at the end of August, but had it not been for the resolve of 36-year-old Gareth McAuley, the result could have panned out far worse.
In August, the Northern Irishman made an average of 5.3 clearances and 2.5 tackles per game, meanwhile winning 65% of duels. The club’s third captain even got on the score sheet in their opening home game of the season, registering the opener in West Brom’s 2-1 defeat to Everton.
McAuley has done the basics right and seen rewards, with the club having conceded just twice in their opening three games. It has taken time but he finally seems to have adapted to the direct, long-ball approach Pulis wants to see, becoming one of the main feeders of Venezuelan frontman Salomon Rondon so far this campaign.
