January 11 2001

Hayden Mullins

Palace youngster Hayden Mullins says that he would like to play in the centre of midfield in the future. At the moment he is happy to play where manager Alan Smith asks him, even if they are in unpreferred roles.

Mullins, who believes he deserved the wake-up call he received earlier in the season when Smith placed him on the transfer list, said: "I had a lot to learn and needed to mature as a player but the last few months have allowed me to do just that.

"I feel more comfortable in playing wherever the gaffer plays me - whether it be midfield, right-back or centre-back - but long term, I would like to play in the centre of midfield because that's where you see a lot more of the ball.

"For the moment I'm just interested in getting the team as far up the table as possible."

Also, yesterday it has been reported that Palace will be facing a hearing by the FA after they were charged with misconduct for the second time this season.

The Eagles are looking at a possible £150,000 fine following the Boxing Day bust-up with Gillingham. In the wort case it could result in Palace losing points.