Winger thanks Millen for raising morale at Crystal Palace

The morale issue was cited as a major reason for the departure of former boss Ian Holloway, who resigned last month after a combination of poor results and rumours of dressing room unrest began to surface.

But winger Bolasie says since Millen has taken charge the atmosphere has lifted, with Saturday’s impressive 0-0 draw against a high-flying Everton side at Sehurst Park a testament to that.

He said: “You could see the team spirit was there today, it was back to the old Palace of last year and the fans were brilliant.

“That was a good performance from the boys today and we were unlucky not to win.

“When I put Jerome Thomas in, I thought he would have scored because it is a normal finish he does in training.

“But it was unfortunate and we have to be happy with the point because they hit the crossbar, so you could say it was a fair result.”

Bolasie added: “It’s a shame the international break has come when it has, but at least we are going into it full of confidence.

“Keith’s sessions have been high intensity.

“Training has been of good quality and the place has been buzzing since he took over, so there is no immediate rush to have a new manager.”

However, it is now expected a new boss will be in place this week, meaning the Toffees draw was Millen’s final game in control.

Palace stopper Julian Speroni was sad to see Millen leave the caretaker managerial role but hopes he can stay at the club in a coaching capacity.

The Argentine keeper said: “Keith has been fantastic since he took charge of the team and is always encouraging everybody.

“I would love to see Keith stay but nobody ever knows what will happen when a new manager comes in and that is just the way football is.”

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