November 29 2007

Julian Speroni

Julian Speroni has laughed off suggestions that a language barrier was causing problems for Crystal Palace's defenders.

Speroni has been involved in the occasional mix-up with his back-four but the Argentine goalkeeper is certain that is not down to the way he speaks English.

"Some people say communication is a problem because I'm Argentine, but I've been in the UK for six years and I don't have any communication problems," Speroni said.

"Football is very simple. I don't know why people say that because we understand each other perfectly on the pitch and in the dressing room."

Despite one or two erratic moments, Speroni has deservedly established himself as Palace's number one this season.

The 28-year-old admits the presence of Scott Flinders on the bench has made him raise his game.

"I think I'm improving with every game and I have the continuity I was looking forward to, but I think I can play better each time," he said.

"As a goalkeeper you need to be confident and play most of the time, and that's very important for me.

"But I can't go to sleep because Scott is training very w€ell and has great desire and is a great keeper. I have to stay on my toes."

Speroni believes former goalkeeping coach Tony Burns had a lot to do with his good form.

Burns was replaced by Jim Stannard recently but Speroni said: "It was sad to lose Tony Burns because we worked well with him.

"During last season when I wasn't playing regular football, Tony was the one who kept me going which was very important."

Meanwhile, Warnock is reported to be considering a move for West Ham winger Hogan Ephraim, who has impressed during a loan stint at QPR this season.