Sean Scannell has struggled to hold down a regular first team place since bursting on to the scene at Crystal Palace, but all that could be about to change.

The 22-year-old, who scored a memorable lob against Sheffield Wednesday in only his third Eagles appearance in 2007, has been in fine form during pre-season and scored in the 3-1 friendly loss to Bournemouth on Saturday.

The striker has often had to watch from the sidelines through injury or loss of form but Eagles manager Dougie Freedman believes this season is the one where Scannell will finally shine.

"The lad has never really been coached or cared for," he said.

"But our coaching staff have put a lot of time into him this summer.

"We are trying to get the best out of him and it is starting to show.

"You cannot blame him for the last few seasons but you can look at the previous managers for the lack of coaching he has had."