Dean Henderson

Key strength: Shot-stopping

Shot-stopper

Perched precariously at 14th in the Premier League table, Crystal Palace's survival campaign has found its unlikely hero between the posts. Dean Henderson, the 28-year-old England international, has been an ever-present fortress—featuring in all 20 league appearances and playing every single minute of Palace's season. Since his £25 million move from Manchester United in August 2023, Henderson has transformed from Old Trafford outcast to Selhurst Park savior. His commanding shot-stopping ability provides the security blanket for defenders Marc Guéhi and Chris Richards to push higher, while his modern distribution (45 physical rating, 35 passing) allows Oliver Glasner's side to build from the back with confidence. With his market value holding firm at £25 million and backup Walter Benítez consigned to permanent bench duty, Henderson is proving that the grass is sometimes greener away from Old Trafford. Four yellow cards aside, his discipline and durability have been instrumental. In a season where every point matters for survival, Palace have found their most reliable guardian—one save at a time.