Crystal Palace skipper Shaun Derry is in buoyant mood regarding the Eagles' prospects for the upcoming season.

The 31-year-old, who says he is fitter then ever after missing the back end of last season with shoulder problems, says he has enjoyed pre-season, especially the trip to America.

"The trip away to Baltimore was good team bonding for us," he said.

"It really was a crucial week.

"We came back and played a couple of League One sides and they gave us a good run out and overall it's been good and enjoyable."

The central midfielder also revealed the club are hoping to take inspiration from Burnley's play-off winning performance last season and insisted they are capable of challenging for the play-offs despite many making them favourites for another mid-table finish.

"We've got to take heart from what Burnley did last year," he said.

"They only used eighteen or nineteen players and hopefully we can emulate them.

"We played them in the first two or three games last year and with all due respect to Owen Coyle's team we didn't think they would be setting the League alight but as time went on their team spirit grew stronger.

'Hopefully we can have a similar type of season."

With regards to Saturday's opening fixture against Plymouth and future games at Selhurst Park, Derry was also optimistic.

"We want at least a draw, hopefully a win," he said.

"We want to make Selhurst Park a fortress."

On a personal note, Derry spoke of his continued hunger for the game and of his busy pre-season, in which he has fought against the shoulder injury.

He said: "I wouldn't say I've had a close season really, I've been working every day but I've got no apprehensions going into the season now.

"The older you are, the more excited you get to be playing a fantastic game.

"I'm really excited to be continuing playing at this level and playing for a big club."