April 22 2008

Shaun Derry

Shaun Derry wants the Crystal Palace fans to roar the team to play-off glory.

Derry, who helped Palace to the Premier League in 2004, praised the travelling support at Vicarage Road after Palace ran out 2-0 winners against rivals Watford on Saturday.

With other results also going their way, Palace are holding on to the final play-off berth with two games left and Derry believes the supporters can give the players a huge lift in their quest for promotion.

"As you saw when the final whistle went, we went over to the Palace fans and that kind of reception will keep you driven for the next game because you want that again," said the 30-year-old.

"I think it's key for the boys to emphasise how important those fans are. From the first minute to the last minute they were fantastic.

"They can drive us on and when the Palace fans are in full voice it does help the boys, each and everyone of us.

"We've found ourselves in and around that bunch where it's going to be three of six or seven teams who are going to be playing in the Premiership next year. I know where I want to be playing. I want to be pitting my wits against the top players."