Ian Holloway was beaming from ear to ear with the signing of Jose Campana, especially after his first game in a Palace shirt in the 3-0 victory away at Gillingham on Tuesday.

The Palace boss hinted that the Spaniard would partner Mile Jedinak in midfield after saying that he was “astounded by his knowledge” and praising the 20-year-old’s tactical knowledge.

Holloway was keen to stress how well the two played together in the centre of the pitch, with Campana coming deep to collect the ball, and driving forwards.

There was also praise for the youngsters in the squad.

Quade Taylor and Kyle De Silva both impressed, and Holloway explained that he was looking to train Taylor in a right-back position, as exemplified in the pre-season friendlies thus far.

Indeed, he was keen to stress that he wants the right balance between youth and experience, saying that youngsters from south London should come to Palace because they will play, and the club will help them to reach the top. 

Indeed, he praised Kyle De Silva’s “wonderful” through ball early on in the match, and his general performance too.

One young player who will be looking to make an impact in the development squad this season is Michael Chambers.

The highly rated centre-back, who signed despite competition from Manchester United last year, was ruled out of last season through injury.

Having previously been with Taylor at Dulwich, Chambers will seek to emulate his team-mate and push on to the fringes of the first team next season.

The Gillingham match, whilst against a League One side, showed that Palace have plenty of talent at their disposal, and the performance of Campana in particular, as well as the lively Dwight Gayle would suggest that the club have been thorough with their scouting, and got the signings spot on so far.

Next up for Palace in pre-season is Crawley, where Palace will seek to avenge a 1-0 defeat courtesy of a Matt Tubbs goal, the last time the two sides met at the Broadfield Stadium.