Crystal Palace star Jeffrey Schlupp believes Patrick Vieira's rivalry with Manchester United gives the fixture on Wednesday evening an extra edge.
Vieira joined Palace in 2021 after a two-year spell at Nice came to an end in December 2020. Since then, the former Arsenal captain has enjoyed a solid spell at Selhurst Park.
Ahead of the clash this evening, Palace sit 12th in the Premier League table, seven points clear of the relegation zone. Vieira's past meetings with United during his playing days have been well-documented.
ALSO READ: Vieira delivers verdict on United's title chances
Key battles in the early 2000s with Roy Keane have stayed long in the memory of Reds fans. Ahead of the fixture, Schlupp told talkSPORT that Vieira's history with United would be motivation for Palace.
He explained: "I think everyone knows [what Vieira thinks about United]. Everyone knows the history, obviously with him being an Arsenal captain at the time.
"Everyone knows, he doesn’t even need to say anything. It gives us that extra edge."
United will be hoping that they are not drawn into a fiery clash with Palace this evening ahead of a big clash with the Gunners on Sunday. The Reds are in fine form having won every single match since the World Cup break.
Erik ten Hag's side's most recent win came on Saturday as they took the bragging rights in a 2-1 victory over Manchester City. Rotation may be key for United this evening, with such a huge game at the Emirates at the weekend.
Should Casemiro or Fred be booked on Wednesday night, they will miss the Arsenal game through suspension. Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial, meanwhile, both suffered knocks in the victory over City and could be rested.
READ NEXT:
