"That will excite some Palace fans" – Sky Sports reporter reacts after big Selhurst Park claim

Crystal Palace potentially changing formation next season ‘will excite’ some of the club’s supporters, according to Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge.

The Eagles enjoyed a successful first season under the tutelage of manager Patrick Vieira in 2021/22, and the astute tactician will be aiming to maintain his progress both on and off the pitch next term.

According to The Sun, Vieira is planning to switch to a back five when the new Premier League season gets underway in August despite the triumph of his maiden campaign at the helm.

Palace almost exclusively played a back-four during the Frenchman’s opening 12 months at the helm, with 4-3-3 being the most popular setup.

The system saw the south London outfit pull off memorable victories over the likes of Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur, but it seems as though Vieira is already prepared to move away from it.

First-choice centre-back’s Marc Guehi and Joachim Andersen have previously played in a back three with previous sides Swansea City and Lyon, respectively.

Therefore, the transition could be a smooth one, providing more protection at the back for the capital club as they look to compete with their more affluent rivals.

Bridge believes the potential change will delight certain sections of the Palace fanbase, although their ‘big issue’ remains replacing loanee Conor Gallagher.

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“I think Guehi and Andersen have played in a three at their previous clubs. Andersen did it at Lyon, so maybe he’s looking at that as well; it gives them extra protection.

“I’ve not heard that, but if that is true, I’m sure that will excite some Palace fans, and of course, their big issue is really replacing their great loanee