Freedman facing tough decisions ahead of Palace semi final (From Croydon Guardian)

Freedman facing tough decisions ahead of Palace semi final

12:17pm Monday 23rd January 2012 in Crystal Palace By Sam Ross

Dougie Freedman is delighted to have a fully fit squad available for the first time this season as Crystal Palace prepare for one of their biggest games in recent history.

The Eagles travel to Cardiff City for the second-leg of their Carling Cup semi-final tomorrow having shrugged off the mystery virus that hindered them in their 1-0 first leg win at Selhurst Park, thanks to an Anthony Gardner header.

And now Freedman has some tough decisions to make on selection.

"The bug has gone and it, it is fantastic news for us," he said.

"Every single person on my books is available, rested and prepared. It is a challenge we are looking forward to.

"I've got decisions to make with a lot of people. I've noticed a real change around the place since the Manchester United game.

“A lot of people are not only bang into what we are trying to do they are having an input in what direction the players want to go.

"We are a lot stronger physically than we were last time out against Cardiff."

The 37-year-old is on the verge of taking Crystal Palace to their first Wembley visit since the 1990 FA Cup final after only a year in charge.

But he refuses to take any credit himself and admits it is just reward for what the fans and players have been through over the last few seasons.

"To be here is fantastic for this club but to take it one step further will go down in history," he said.

"It's about the club moving forward, it's certainly not about me.

"It's down to what the players decide to on the night. I can book the hotels and get the food right but when the whistle goes they've got to go play.

"The players and the fans coming together at Selhurst for the Cardiff game was special.

"Their team is not in the relegation zone, they have something to look forward to and something to be proud of.

"The players will understand what they have to do to give a little bit back to the fans."

Freedman has played at the old Wembley with Leeds and the Eagles in play-off finals but admits the role of manager for such an occasion is entirely different to a playing one.

"I don't sit down and tell them stories over a cup of tea," he added.

"I've told them I will prepare them as best as possible on how to deal with two legged semi-finals.

"As a player, it's completely different. When I played I was the kind of guy who turned up with my boots and just played.

"A manager's job is a little bit different, you have to let the players know you are fully behind them and will take responsibility any way it goes."