By News Express on May 21, 2016

A lot may depend on how African stars perform as Crystal Palace take on Manchester United today in the final of the 2016 edition of the English FA Cup at Wembley Stadium, England. Crystal Palace Manager Alan Pardew has five African stars to call into battle as the underdogs seek to upset the Red Devils. Here’s the outlook, according to Goal:

PAPE SOUARE: Barring any last-minute injuries or hiccups, Senegal full-back Souare will start for Palace in the final, having been manager Alan Pardew’s first choice all season. The wideman has had a solid campaign, and will add pace and creativity going forward, as well as the ability to chase back in the event of a counter-attack. He set up Connor Wickham’s winner in the 2-1 semi-final win over Watford, but will have his work cut out with United’s wide players!

YANNICK BOLASIE: Bolasie is the most high profile of the African contingent at Crystal Palace, and will be the man to watch come game time. The explosive Congolese has hit a purple patch in recent weeks, and was on the scoresheet in the semi-final win over Watford last month. With six goals to his name this season and enough trickery to fill a shopping trolley, the Eagles will look to Bolasie for inspiration as they eye a famous cup upset over a United side that will start as firm favourites to a record 12th FA Cup title.

BAKARY SAKO: The Mali forward has been a disappointment this season after an explosive 2014/15 campaign with former club Wolverhampton Wanderers. With only two goals to his name, his impact has been limited as he's struggled to make the step up from the second tier. However, he has the quality to trouble United and cannot be underestimated. Sako can be lethal in front of goal and poses a serious physical threat that the Eagles could use against what has, at times, been described as a lightweight United side. He has made three FA Cup appearances off the bench this season, and, injury permitting, will be an option for Alan Pardew.

EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR: All things considered, it has been a disappointing season for Adebayor at Crystal Palace. Having arrived in the winter transfer window, a lot was expected of the former Arsenal, Manchester City and Real Madrid man, but he has only managed one league goal in 12 league appearances. He has played in three FA Cup matches in the run-up to the final, and with his experience he will be one of the players manager Alan Pardew will look to to lift his side as they take on favourites United. Having never won the cup in his storied career, could Adebayor actually be motivated for the final?

MAROUANE CHAMAKH: Chamakh has mostly featured off the bench for Crystal Palace this season, and will likely be asked to play the same role in the final. The Moroccan is highly experienced and will offer a different option for the Eagles’ frontline, especially if they are forced to chase the game or suffer an injury. With only 12 appearances for Palace all season, and no goals, he has had a poor campaign, but with the FA Cup renowned for glorious final moments, it will be no surprise to see him help his side to a win. His height could make him a valuable option off the bench.

•Photo shows Emmanuel Adebayor

Source News Express

Posted May 21, 2016

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