CANARIES boss Chris Hughton is keen to point out the impact a positive result against Crystal Palace for his side this Saturday could have on a closely-bunched Premier League table.

City could rise up to 13th place and the sanctuary of mid-table with three points this weekend, and with score-lines in other matches going in the Club’s favour.

“We know how tight it is, and it is a big game – there’s no doubt about that because it’s the next – but a win on Saturday changes the league table,” said Hughton as his pre-match press conference at Colney Training Centre on Thursday afternoon.

“You certainly have to remember that we’re looking at a league table where there are of course teams below us, and there are some teams above us – who have been spoken about very fondly – who are only a few points in front of us.

“The fact that this match is against a team who are around adds a little bit more to it, and it’s of course at home so we have to be able to take the game to the opposition.”

Hughton has been struck by the news of a double injury blow concerning Robert Snodgrass and Anthony Pilkington, who will be out for four and six weeks respectively.

Despite their problems adding to growing injury list, however, Hughton is keen not to use the weakening of his options as an excuse.

“It’s part and parcel of the game, and it gives somebody else an opportunity so it’s one you have to work around. It tests the squad but of course it’s a problem that all clubs have to deal with,” he added.

“The injuries to Pilkington and Snodgrass are the more frustrating ones because of course they’re two wide players and they both happened in the same week.

“We know where we are with Elliott Bennett – that was very early in the season – and of course with Alex Tettey. You prepare yourself for those injuries and you shield against them, but having two players in the same position out is a frustrating thing.”

Tony Pulis takes charge of the Eagles for the first time on Saturday, and Hughton admits he’s not quite sure what to expect from a Palace team on a high after last weekend’s victory at Hull City.

“The simple answer to that is that we don’t know. They’re on the back of a good win, but how much influence Tony had on that I don’t know because obviously he wasn’t taking the game,” he said.

“How quickly will Tony change things? They’re answers that we’re not sure about but he’s taken over a team that’s on the back of an impressive away win.”

HUGHTON ON PALACE

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