October 20 2011

David Wright

DAVID WRIGHT says he is revelling in his role in the Crystal Palace midfield.

WRIGHT, 31, was signed as a full-back from Ipswich last summer but has since been converted into a midfielder where he has done an important job protecting Palace's back four.

"I class myself as a central midfielder now - in the past I would've always said full-back," he told the South London Press. "I'm really enjoying it in the centre of the park. I feel I've got a bigger influence over what happens by defending there and helping the team.

"I sit in front of the back four and support them by trying to destroy the opposition's attacks, then I give the ball to the likes of Sean Scannell, Wilfried Zaha, Darren Ambrose and Glenn Murray - the matchwinners we've got in the team.

"I know my job is not the most glamorous. I break up the play and then give it to the boys who can really hurt the other side.

"I don't think you'll see me getting on the scoresheet or into the box making late runs. It's not my job. I know what mine is and I'm really pleased to be doing that.

"With the likes of Scans and Wilf they are that year older and wiser. The gaffer has got them a lot fitter and stronger. They are getting better with each passing game.

"The things those boys do with the ball I couldn't even dream of - it's great to watch and have that in your team. If they keep improving then they'll cause a lot of problems for our opposition.

"We've definitely got the experience and raw talent in the dressing room to have a really good season."