Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew has claimed that Manchester United's possession game could force the atmosphere at Selhurst Park into a "lull" this weekend.

United have failed to score in their last two games in all competitions, and Pardew is hoping that the home fans can guide the Eagles to a win in Saturday's match.

"United's long spells of possession could threaten to drive the atmosphere into a lull, but we need to keep the fans singing along," Pardew said in today's press conference.

"United aren't getting as many shots off as they normally do, but defensively they're always in a good shape."

Five points currently separate the sides in the league table, with United fourth and Palace seventh.