Who will start for Luton Town against Crystal Palace?

Date: Saturday 25th November 2023

Kick-off: 3:00pM (GMT)

Venue: Kenilworth Road

This round of predictions stems from a massively important game coming up against Crystal Palace back on home soil. The fixture, although still relatively early on in the season, is close to the 'must-win' category after a difficult last two fixtures and games against Arsenal and Man City just around the corner. Looking to build on an impressive point last time out at home, we at Oak Road Hatter think this will be the starting XI.

Team News and Oak Road Hatters Predicted XI:

Injury news: Andersen, Berry, Burke, Kabore, Lokonga.

Of course, Thomas Kaminski starts in goal for the Hatters.

We believe that Town will line up as a back four, with Osho (RB), Mengi (RCB), Lockyer (LCB), and Doughty (LB). Although we have bodies back from injury in the defence it's unlikely to see any feature after returns from fairly lengthy spells out. With a game under the 'must-win' category goals are required, we all know something that has been lacking recently and opting for the extra player in a forward position should aid that.

Moving into the midfield we have a trio of Nakamba (DM), Pelly (DM), and Barkley (AM). Something we debated amongst us was the possible inclusion of Clark instead of Pelly, something that would not be a surprise if it happened. While Palace should by no means be underestimated, at home we need to dominate the ball and work the chances for our forwards.

Moving onto the forward line, and on the right we have Chong (RW). A player who has come on as a substitute in recent games and impressed, bagging an excellent counter-attacking goal against Liverpool. Townsend is unfortunate to miss out but Chong's explosive pace and transition between boxes will be required. Upfront we stick with Morris (ST) in a game he'll be hoping to impose himself on. Someone who may be a slight injury doubt, but simply has to start is the star-man Chieo Ogbene (LW).

Kaminski, Osho, Mengi, Lockyer, Doughty, Nakamba, Pelly, Barkley, Chong, Morris, Ogbene.