Joel Ward gives insight on Crystal Palace
Joel Ward has pointed out that attitude and hard work are the secrets of Crystal Palace. He also focused on the points as the key to success. It is for both the existing players and the youngsters at the club.
Ward shared that a lot has changed since he arrived at the club in 2012 but some things stayed the same; some things, like the core values, have been unwavering.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
“There have been comings and goings, there have been changes in facilities and the way things are done, and being in the Premier League for the large majority of the time there have been some enormous changes: you can see that with the new Academy”
Ward recently signed a two-year extension in the current open transfer window, as he aimed to stay at Selhurst Park into a second decade. He said that he loved his time at the club, and playing games is the most important thing for him because he wants to be on the pitch.
He added that he has been fortunate enough to work with the likes of Wilf AKA Zaha, Andros AKA Townsend, Yannick AKA Bolasie, and Jason AKA Puncheon on the right-hand side. He also talked about the different qualities of the players and how they made diverse partnerships.
The secret to Crystal palace dressing room uniqueness
“A lot of the lads are genuine, honest guys, and I think that’s what has been unique about our dressing room over the years. Everyone is a level-headed, honest, hard-working individual, and that relays onto the pitch collectively as a team,” said Ward.
Ward has over 250 appearances over nine seasons and one particular teammate made it worthwhile for him. Ward commended Mile [Jedinak], his exemplary character on the field and off the field can be a special source of motivation. He was a formidable opponent on the field. A person like Jedinak should be a role model that the upcoming stars can emulate.
“Attitude has always been a key thing for me,” he explains. “Your talent will only get you so far, but your attitude will carry you that extra way.”
He advised that the youngsters should be cautious of the attitude they portray because it is their key to attaining greater heights.
He advised that whatever opportunity comes across should be grasped and held firmly in both hands because opportunity comes only once, adding that for him, attitude speaks volumes and that will speak for itself.
Reacting to their loss against Watford, he said;
Most possession and chances in the League Cup clash were enjoyed by Palace. Despite their confident play, they still lost to the Hornets. Their early victory was erased by a late Ashley Fletcher winner. Ward told Palace TV that the team needed a little ruthlessness and they could have been victorious.
He made mention that the game was theirs to have won. He made mention of the chances created and also, the control exerted during the first half of the game, and said they could have been the winners but it was sad walking away without a win.
