Delaney relishing McCarthy rivalry at Palace
Back to full fitness following 18 months out with a groin problem, Dubliner McCarthy is eyeing up the centre-back spot that Delaney has made his own with Crystal Palace this season.
Yet Cork native Delaney has welcomed the competition from his fellow Irishman as he believes the options will help the Eagles in their bid to survive in the Premier League.
Besides, the two veteran defenders share a history of overcoming potential career-ending injuries so there is no shortage of sympathy when one attempts to outdo the other in training.
“I wouldn’t wish what Paddy went through on my worst enemy. Every time he thought he was on the verge of coming back, he would pick up little injuries and they would set him back again,” said Delaney.
“He has been in and around the squad for a long time now. It was big boost for him when he got back running and it was great to see, because he is a leader and the team can do with a personality like that.”
“But I don’t mind at all that he might be pushing me for a place in the team. I actually like to have that pressure as it makes you stay sharp, but he’s going to have to fight hard to take that spot off me.”
Last weekend, club captain McCarthy was an unused substitute for the FA Cup third round win away to West Brom and he is expected to be in the match-day squad again this weekend.
Tony Pulis’ side take on Tottenham Hotspur and tightening up at the back is something he is demanding after keeping just one clean sheet in their last five league games.
“We started really well under the new manager and kept a couple of clean sheets. He has brought a lot of organisation to things and we do a lot of work in training on team shape and set-pieces, which have worked well for us,” said Delaney.
“Obviously, the fewer goals we concede, the better our chances are of picking up results and that’s what it’s all about. There is a confidence in the squad now and if a few new faces arrive in January that will strengthen us even more.”
