Here’s how the Crystal Palace players rated in their 1-0 defeat at home to Sheffield United.

Vicente Guaita – 5

Bizarre howler gifted the visitors with all 3 points. It is fair to say that the Spaniard didn’t have the best of games.

Joel Ward – 6

Was initially sent off of by referee Andy Madley, but the decision was overturned by VAR.

James Tomkins – 6

Average performance. Fantastic chance to equalise in the second half but the defender couldn’t quite connect with McArthur’s cross. 

Gary Cahill – 6

Made a great challenge in the first half to deny the visitors a dangerous sight at goal. Had an all-round good game. 

Patrick van Aanholt - 6

Solid return to the side. Great link up play with Zaha down the left side. Got forward whenever he could and did well defensively.

James McCarthy – 6

Quiet game. Didn’t create much going forward.

Luka Milivojevic – 6

Decent return to the side for the captain after his 3 match suspension for a red card against Derby. Did well defensively and created chances going forward for Palace.

James McArthur – 7

A real workhorse in the middle of the park. The Scottish international was tirelessly up and down the pitch all game and played a crucial role in many of the Palace attacks. Had a good chance to score in the second half which forced a good save out of Dean Henderson.

Wilfried Zaha - 8

Constant threat all game with his dribbling ability and his speed. Palace’s best player by far today as he has been all season. The winger was left frustrated after being constantly fouled by various Sheffield United players throughout the game.

Jordan Ayew - 6

Looked uncomfortable out of position on the right wing and as such he became isolated and struggled to get involved with play at times. 

Christian Benteke - 6

Another poor game for the Belgian forward. Had a few chances to convert which he fluffed. The striker really can’t buy a goal at the moment. Still hasn’t scored a Premier League goal this season.

SUBS

Andros Townsend – 6

Replaced Benteke from the bench after spending nearly two months out injured. Looked lively and Palace fans will be keen to see him quickly become involved again.

Max Meyer – 6

Was only involved for the last stages of the game. Struggled to get on the ball.

Cheikhou Kouyaté – 6

Played only the last few minutes but was disappointing. Had an attempted cross which went out for a throw in.