Deadline day was supposed to be an exciting one for Crystal Palace, as they looked to continue the positivity that saw them in 11th place at the time.
They were just four points off fifth-placed Manchester United, but notably, they were also seven points clear of AFC Bournemouth and the relegation zone heading into this weekend’s action.
By bringing in some exciting talent, Palace could provide Roy Hodgson with the tools to ensure the club continues pushing for the top half of the table, rather than being dragged down.
However, despite all of the noise, Palace’s only dealings were outgoings – even Scott Banks, who joined this January, was sent out on loan to Scottish Championship side Alloa Athletic.
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There was some misfortune involved with the missed signings, as Nathan Ferguson had a knee issue that was revealed in a medical, as reported by The Evening Standard.
However, there was clearly still interest in signing the West Bromwich Albion defender, as they attempted to renegotiate a deal, but were eventually unable to reach an agreement.
Then there is Jarrod Bowen, who Palace had shown an interest in, but were beaten to by West Ham United, who agreed on a deal that could be worth up to £22m, as also reported by The Evening Standard.
That Palace were beaten by their rivals to someone who already has 16 goals and seven assists will surely be infuriating – for both Hodgson and fans.
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Football Insider had also suggested that Palace may be making a move for Eberechi Eze, but nothing came to fruition there either.
All of this means that Cenk Tosun’s loan arrival makes him the only January recruit who will help Palace this season.
Considering the late flurry of interest in exciting players, the end result will be seen as hugely anticlimactic for the club.
Hodgson showed signs of frustration during a transfer-related interview with Sky Sports in the summer, and he would be forgiven for feeling he has been left in the lurch this time around as well.
Meanwhile, Palace fans reacted to a trio of players leaving Selhurst Park on Deadline Day.