Mark Bright says it is vital that Crystal Palace make a good start to the new Premier League season on Saturday.

Alan Pardew’s men kick-off their campaign at Norwich City, followed by the visit of Arsenal (August 15) and Aston Villa (August 22).

Bright has applauded the summer signings, especially that of Yohan Cabaye, as key to inspiring Palace’s younger flock of stars to make that step up to Premier League football.

The Frenchman has also been joined by Middlesbrough’s Patrick Bamford on loan, Alex McCarthy from QPR and Sunderland’s Connor Wickham.

However, on the eve of the big kick-off, Bright wants nothing to distract from a bright start.

He said: “You’ve got to keep everyone fit and there can be no easing our way into the season.

“The games at the start of the season are just as important as those games at the end.

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“It would be incredible if we could finish in the table in the top nine – it would set the bar for future players coming through the academy.

“People know if you get in the first team, this is what is expected of you. All this hard work.

“The young players are so lucky because they know if they get into the first team, they will be playing in the Premier League, not the Championship, the Premier League.

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“This should make them work harder so when they get a chance, they’re on the same pitch as Yohan Cabaye.”

He added: “You never know how you will get your break.

“Pardew will play some of the young players in the League Cup to give them a chance.”

Meanwhile, new signing Wickham admitted he is pleased to be returning to the south of England after four years plying his trade on Wearside.

The striker, believed to cost around £7m plus add-ons, said: “I needed a fresh start. I had four years up north and it’s been a bit stop-start.

“Now I’ve come back home and I can settle down and see my family a bit more and hopefully let my football do the talking.”

Palace completed their pre-season commitments on Monday night with a 1-0 defeat at Dagenham & Redbridge.