Why Crystal Palace Can Thank Manchester United Legend For Inspired Survival

When Tony Pulis took over at Crystal Palace they were sat rock bottom of the Premier League table with just four points to their name. After the Eagles won just once in their opening 13 games, losing the other 12, Ian Holloway was given the boot and former Stoke boss Pulis took over. This week they beat Everton at Goodison Park to retain their Premier League status for next season.

It has been an incredible story, but Pulis has revealed a little inspiration behind his decision to join the London club.

The Welshman was originally reluctant to take the reins at Selhurst Park, but after speaking to a certain Sir Alex Ferguson, he decided to take it.

Pulis said, “Did I have doubts about taking it? It was difficult. I met Steve Parish and spoke to Steve about four or five times and I didn’t feel it was right.

“I looked at it and everyone I spoke to said it was a difficult one.

“Sir Alex Ferguson and Peter Coates, my old chairman at Stoke, they were the only two who said to take it. They were two very good judges!”

It was a clever move by Pulis. Not only has he kept Palace up for the first time in their history, but he has become a hero down in Croydon and has won plenty of fans in the process.

There have been shouts about him claiming the manager of the season award from some neutrals, which considering the jobs done by Brendan Rodgers and Roberto Martinez says a lot.

Palace will have another term in the topflight next year, and although Pulis and the players deserve a lot of credit, perhaps a pint is owed to Fergie as a thank you for convincing him.