Jason Puncheon insists Crystal Palace must beat Southampton on Sunday, but admits some of his teammates will naturally try and protect themselves.

Palace travel to St Mary’s for the final game of the Premier League calendar with safety already secured after the win over Stoke City last weekend.

Puncheon reminded his fellow players that FA Cup final places are under threat, but thinks it’s “only human” that they will want to ensure they remain fit for the trip to Wembley.

“We’ve got to win,” said Puncheon after the Stoke victory.

“Lets not forget the gaffer said people are playing for their places. Places are under threat for the final.

“We’ve got to go into that game positive and when people have got a chance they have got to take it.

“Everybody wants to play. It’s in your genes to want to play.

“I do think some people will try and protect themselves for that final, you’re only human.

“But we’ve got to try and win that game next week and win the FA Cup final.”

Croydon-born Puncheon also admitted the final against Manchester United on May 21 is a fantastic pinnacle to his career.

The 29-year-old has never won a major trophy, and is aware chances for silverware do not come around too often.

“It’s a great pinnacle,” he said. “Some people can go through their careers and not win anything.

“It’s a great chance for all of us.”

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