Former Crystal Palace defender Darren Powell always knew his old club would struggle in the Premier League, but they should know by now whether or not they will survive in the top flight this season.

Caretaker boss Keith Millen masterminded the first Premier League point of his managerial career with Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Everton, in what is likely to be his final game in charge at Selhurst Park with Ian Holloway’s permanent replacement expected to be announced this week.

It was the club’s first cleansheet of the season and Powell, who played in the Premier League for Palace having helped them to promotion via a 1-0 Championship play-off final win over West Ham United in 2004, reckons it could be a sign the Eagles are coming to grips with the step up in class.

“To see any of my old clubs struggle is sad, especially Palace,” said the 37-year-old Hampton & Richmond Borough joint-boss.

“The teams that come up via the play-offs always struggle, but all Palace need is a good win and hopefully they can turn it around.

“It is a big step up. Good players look like they become average overnight, but maybe that is because they are overloaded with too much information.

“They have to set themselves out differently to compete in what is supposedly the best league in the world and maybe it is all a bit overwhelming.”

He added: “Trust me, there is a completely different tempo between the Premier League and the Championship and it is about adjusting to that tempo.

“Some teams don’t ever get it, but after 10 or 15 games you should know whether they are going to push on and survive or struggle all season.”

Your Local Guardian:

Close attention: Joel Ward keeps an eye on Everton's Steven Pienaar