Mourinho praises Palace ahead of derby

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has heaped praise on Crystal Palace ahead of today’s derby at Stamford Bridge. 

Palace played without a recognised striker in May’s corresponding fixture but could not prevent a 1-0 defeat as the Blues sealed the title.

But Mourinho believes Alan Pardew’s side could provide tough opposition if they adopt a more attacking approach.

He said: “Last season they were good, and this season I think they are better. They are a team that will be top 10, for sure.

“For them, Stamford Bridge is a huge motivation. It’s just a question of whether they coming to try and play the game with us and try to win.

“Or are they coming with a different perspective, of being more defensive, and try something on the counter-attack like they did last year?

“They have very good strikers, but who knows? Maybe they will decide to do what they did last year and play without a striker.”