Crystal Palace manager George Burley hailed the performance of Julian Speroni in the 0-0 draw against Burnley on Saturday.

The Argentine, who Fulham showed an interest in signing on transfer deadline day last month, made a string of stunning saves that kept Palace in the match.

“We have a top class keeper in Julian Speroni and you could see why we worked very hard to keep him during the transfer window” said Burley. “ It doesn't surprise when he makes these kind of saves, as he is someone who is still maturing.”

“Julian has been an important player for this club, a joy to work with and someone who has a big personality. People here know full well what he can do as he has been 'Player Of The Year for the last three seasons.”

"The club didn't want to sell him and it is pleasing for me to be able to keep the best players. We have given our captain, Paddy McCarthy, a new contract and Darren Ambrose signed a new deal but then has been injured and is a big miss for us all."

The Palace manager was also pleased how the rest of his men coped with a Burnley team who had kept most of the squad who graced the Premier League last season.

"I was pleased with a point as they are a good side with experience and had number of opportunities.”

"We started the game brightly and did well for the first period of the match but then had to stand firm when Burnley got on top in the game. Overall, I was pleased with a point."

"It was a learning experience for the youngsters and our wide men didn't get as much room as they did against Portsmouth but games like this will be good for them. Wilfried Zaha was back from suspension but even he didn't look as sharp as he did a few weeks back as he has lost a bit of the edge to his game during the three games he has missed.”

"We are trying to build a team here and that includes developing the young players we have and I have been able to get some players in on loan to try and help the strength of the squad but we know it is going to take time."