Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson says 'belief is growing' despite Carabao Cup loss at Bristol City

Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson says that 'belief is growing' in his squad despite the midweek Carabao Cup humiliation at Bristol City.

Palace lost 4-1 at Ashton Gate to the Championship side and now face West Ham on Saturday as they look for just a second league win of the campaign.

But Hodgson is adamant they can soon be climbing the table with the continued support of the fans.

 

He said: "We're out of the cup now and we must concentrate on the really important matter of staying in the Premier League.

Hodgson thanked the fans for their backing at St James' Park

"For me, every game's a must-win game. Even if we climb out of the relegation zone, we'll be wanting to win to climb the table.

"I think there is a belief, a faith in what we're trying to do as a team and the methods being used. That belief is growing."

Regarding injuries, Hodgson said: "Chung-yong Lee got a kick at Bristol and he's having a scan. James McArthur has been receiving treatment all week but we hope he will be okay for the weekend."

Christian Benteke has been out for four weeks but Hodgson says he is on course for a return to action in a couple of weeks.

Pape Souare had his shirt thrown back at him by Palace fans at Ashton Gate

Pape Souare had his short thrown back at him after he threw it into the away support at Bristol on Tuesday but Hodgson is appreciative of the backing his team have enjoyed since he took over.

He said: "The fans are very much our 12th man at Selhurst and support us very well away. They made their voices heard at St James' and that isn't always easy.

"We've got to give the fans something to cheer about, through performances and results, preferably both."

The Palace manager says West Ham will provide a serious test this weekend

West Ham surprised many with their comeback from 2-0 down to beat Tottenham 3-2 on Wednesday night and Hodgson is expecting a thorough test on Saturday.

He said: "I thought they were very good [against Spurs]. They transformed in the second half and played exceptionally well.

"One or two players have come into their team and given Slaven the sort of headache that manager's like."