Stand-in Symons staying upbeat

Kit Symons is trying to remain positive ahead of his first game as the caretaker manager of Crystal Palace.

The Wales defender has replaced Steve Kember, who was sacked after a dismal run of results which saw the club drop from the top six of the First Division into the bottom five with only one win from 13 matches.

Assistant manager Terry Bullivant was also dismissed and Symons has opted to bring in Stuart Gray to help him out until chairman Simon Jordan makes a permanent appointment.

Symons wants the job on a full-time basis and knows a successful month at the helm will boost his chances - starting with a win against Preston tomorrow.

"We should be doing far better," Symons said. "We've given ourselves a mountain to climb but we could still sneak into the play-offs."

He also made it clear he is willing to upset players who a week ago were team-mates.

"I might have to drop a few of my mates but if I have to upset a few people then I will do that. I joined in training as a normal player and let the fitness coach do the session - and I got absolutely hammered by the lads. But I am an experienced player and I have the respect of the players."