Patrick Vieira embraces many positives of fine first season at Crystal Palace

Patrick Vieira is pleased he shut out the noise and was able to answer his critics during a successful first season at Crystal Palace.

The 45-year-old took over at Selhurst Park in July and was tasked with replacing veteran boss Roy Hodgson in addition to rebuilding a squad that had just lost a number of senior professionals.

Despite accepting the role only six weeks before the start of the season, the former Arsenal captain was able to guide Palace to an impressive 12th-placed finish and also lead them to an FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.

“I think it has been really good and I am really happy with the staff and the way we work,” Vieira reflected after a final-day win over Manchester United.

“It has been positive and it is good I did not listen a lot about what people were expecting me to achieve this season. I put my head down and with the rest of the staff we work well and work hard.

“We went through a difficult period but we didn’t change our philosophy because we knew where we wanted to go and even through a difficult period we manage to stick together. Now at the end of the season looking at where we are I am pleased with that.”

A first-half goal by Wilfried Zaha earned Palace a first home win over Manchester United since 1991 and ensured they finished only two points off setting a new club record in the Premier League.

Last summer saw chairman Steve Parish along with sporting director Dougie Freedman bring in a number of new additions – the majority aged 23 or below – and Vieira is thrilled with how they have handled their first full season in England’s top flight.

“Of course it is not easy when you come into a football club and there is a really big turnover,” he said.

“With young players coming through of course