Crystal Palace caretaker manager Keith Millen has admitted that the players arriving for training this morning were devastated at the departure of Tony Pulis.

Millen also quashed rumours that Eagles co-chairman Steve Parish and Pulis had fallen out over the return of Wilfried Zaha.

Pulis left Selhurst Park by mutual consent last night, and Millen will take charge of the first team ahead of tomorrow’s Premier League trip to Arsenal.

Speaking to the nation’s media, he said: “I was not expecting to be sitting here today, a day before the start of the season.

“All I can say is that from a football point of view, Tony was happy. When he was on the training pitch and around the staff he was more than happy.

“It certainly wasn't a disagreement over Wilf. He's not on his way back but it was discussed."

He added: “The players are asking why. Now they are wondering who is going to come in, but we have to stay focused.

"I've been in with the players this morning, and we're all devastated.

“It's going to be tough tomorrow, but we're organised. It's not like I've come in and tried to drastically change what we are doing.”

Millen took temporary charge last season when Ian Holloway stepped down, and he was in charge for four games.

He said: “Last time wasn't right for me (to take over). It's slightly different now - I've not had a chance to think about my situation yet."