Cameron Jerome has praised boss Tony Pulis for the turnaround in Crystal Palace’s Premier League fortunes.

The striker, who starred in the Eagles’ 3-0 win at his former home Cardiff City, was brought into the club on loan by Ian Holloway – but he has found his best form under Pulis.

In Holloway’s eight games in charge, Palace won once, but since Pulis took over, they have won eight in 20.

The latest win came courtesy of Jason Puncheon’s brace and Joe Ledley’s tap-in at Cardiff, and it has opened a seven-point gap between the Eagles and the drop zone.

A win over Aston Villa this weekend at Selhurst Park could all-but ensure Premier League football next season.

Jerome said: “Tony [Pulis] has been a breath of fresh air since he’s come to the football club.

“From day one, as soon as he has come in, he has demanded respect and got the team togetherness.

“Everyone is pulling in the right direction and he deserves every plaudit he’s getting at the moment and the accolades.

“He had a point to prove coming in and he’s the sort of man who relishes that sort of challenge.

“If he keeps in the Premier League, he would have done an absolutely fantastic job for us.”