August 25 2003

Steve Kabba

Crystal Palace hope to maintain their 100 per cent record for the visit of Sheffield United minus injured striker Steve Kabba on Tuesday.

United boss Neil Warnock admits his side face a tough test at Selhurst Park. He said: "Palace have quality all around the pitch and their forward line is very strong.

"In the summer they signed Neil Shipperley, a player who I made one or two enquiries about, but we couldn't afford him and Palace was a convenient move for him.

"They have started the season well and could be dark horses for promotion - I think they will be there or thereabouts.

"They have made a good start and Steve will be hoping to maintain it and I don't want to get too left behind if they continue to pick up point."

Tony Popovic will miss the match after getting sent off against Torquay in the Carling Cup. But Wayne Routledge and Shaun Derry return after serving their suspensions following their red cards.

Darren Powell is a doubt after going off injured in the Eagles' 3-1 win over Wimbledon on Saturday.

United's Ashley Ward is likely to miss the match because of a groin injury - Wayne Allison will deputise.

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