Palace get huge boost ahead of Hammers

Crystal Palace have been handed a major boost ahead of their game against West Ham after it was confirmed they would be able to field those players who are set to depart for the African Cup of Nations.

West Ham Fans carries a report claiming that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have revealed that players called up will be able to play for their clubs until January 3rd.

The tournament kicks off in Cameroon on January 9th and players were set to miss league games due to the rule of clubs releasing players two weeks beforehand, but that has been scrapped.

Palace play the Hammers on New Year’s Day at 5:3opm, and they could have been without a clutch of first-team players; Wilfried Zaha, Cheikhou Kouyate, Jeffrey Schlupp and Jordan Ayew will all be available for selection for Patrick Vieira.

On the flipside, Said Benrahma will be available for David Moyes to select even if he is called up by Algeria.