Palace v Burnley preview

Warnock wants top-six spot, Coyle chases top 10

Last updated: 2nd May 2008

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Scowcroft: Could return

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Crystal Palace are aiming to clinch a play-off place, while Burnley's sights are on finishing in the top 10 in the Championship.

Neil Warnock has performed a remarkable job in lifting Palace up the table since his appointment in the autumn and will be anxious to avoid a late lapse.

Palace currently occupy the final play-off berth, but only three points at home to Burnley will guarantee a top-six finish.

Defender Matt Lawrence is unlikely to feature for Palace as he recovers from a hernia injury.

But striker James Scowcroft could make a surprise return to Warnock's squad after missing the last month with a hamstring problem.

Burnley news

Victory for Burnley, coupled with defeat for Plymouth at Wolves, would see Owen Coyle's side end the campaign in 10th position.

Coyle is short on attacking options for the game at Selhurst Park, with Andy Cole, Ade Akinbiyi and Kyle Lafferty all absent.

Cole required stitches in his leg following a challenge by Cardiff's Darren Purse last week, while Lafferty is sidelined with appendicitis and Akinbiyi has chest pains.

But defender Michael Duff is pencilled in for his first appearance for Burnley since suffering a knee injury in the 1-1 draw with Palace at Turf Moor in September.

Former Palace keeper Gabor Kiraly is likely to be on the bench, while Coyle released midfielder Garreth O'Connor in midweek.

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