January 25 2006

Fitz Hall

He was touted by many last season as one of the country's top young centre backs, but Fitz Hall is now getting similar praise for his performances in his new role at right back, by Stuart Pink.

The 25-year-old originally filled in the position because of the current full back crisis at Selhurst Park.

But the former Southampton defender has been such a success Palace boss Iain Dowie faces a potential problem moving him when regular full-backs Danny Butterfield and Danny Granville return from injury.

Hall revealed that despite impressing last term at centre half he is more than happy to stay in that role for the benefit of the team.

Hall said: "I'm just doing a job to tell you the truth. I came back from suspension and am just happy to be straight back in.

"I like playing there. I like getting forward and getting involved, so it's good for me."

Playing on the flank means Hall can concentrate on attacking duties which he did to great effect last Friday against Reading with some skillful runs down the right wing.

Hall admits he can't display some of his dribbling skills at centre back due to the heavy risk element but is enjoying showing the Palace fans some of his ball skills.

Hall added: "Everyone knows I started off as a striker, so I have been brought up with tricks and skills. It's less risky doing that at right back as you're not the last man, so you can get away with losing it a few times, like I did!"

With Granville and Butterfield set to return, it's likely Hall will be shifted back into his familiar position at centre back. But the Palace defender would not complain if asked to continue.

Hall added: "I see myself as a centre-half but if I keep playing at right back and keep doing all right, you never know what will happen."