Boss hoping Palace striker has silenced critics with Cardiff hat-trick (From News Shopper)

Boss hoping Palace striker has silenced critics with Cardiff hat-trick

10:14am Monday 24th September 2012 in Sport By Nick Gentry

PALACE boss Dougie Freedman has slammed the doubters who questioned the quality of Glenn Murray after netting a crucial second half hat-trick in Crystal Palace’s 3-2 win over high-flying Cardiff.

It took the former Brighton front man’s goal tally to five so far this term, just two fewer than he managed for the whole of last season and his manager sees the goal return so far as a vindication of his unwavering faith in the 28-year-old.

“People take time to adapt,” he insisted after Murray’s hat-trick had secured a famous comeback against Cardiff at Selhurst Park on Saturday.

“I have always believed in Glenn Murray and I know he is a top striker and I don’t need anybody telling me he’s not.

“Unfortunately he had his doubters last year, which I cannot understand.

“His performance today, off and on the ball, was very good. His work rate was second to none and he deserved his hat-trick.

“The effort he is putting into his game these days, on and off the field, tells me he is improving as a player, which takes time.”

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