Italian duo Attilio Lombardo and Michele Padovano are both in line to return for Saturday's Selhurst showdown with George Graham's Leeds.

The return of the injury-dogged pair would be a further boost after Palace's first home victory over Premiership opposition this season.

Manager Steve Coppell admitted he would have swapped the 3-0 cup win over Leicester for league points.

But the result and the return of some of his big name stars will do wonders for confidence. After conceding three sickening last-gasp goals to lucky Leicester in the last six years, Palace were due a bit of revenge.

And on Saturday, they got it in style. Even Leicester boss Martin O'Neill admitted it could have been much more than 3-0 in the end.

They will be hoping to repeat their early season success at Leeds when goals from Warhurst and Lombardo made it a glorious away day in the summer sunshine.

Saturday's game has added spice with the prospect of Tomas Brolin playing against his old club.

The baby-faced 28-year-old has been outstanding for the Eagles since coming to south London following his acrimonious split with the Elland Road club last year.

Brolin could well find himself playing in a midfield role to accommodate the talents of Padovano up front.

Padovano was due to start against Leicester last week but broke down the day before the game with a calf strain. Lombardo pulled a hamstring in training the previous week when he had been ready for action.

Neil Shipperley, Neil Emblen, Simon Rodger and David Tuttle are all nearing fitness.

Marc Edworthy could return to his preferred defensive duties while Valerien Ismael will continue at centre half following his assured debut.

Bruce Dyer is certain to start after his stunning hat-trick. For 65 minutes the hugely talented youngster wreaked havoc on a bemused Leicester defence.

Dyer's pace, direct running, ability to go past defenders and willingness and enthuisasm saw him help himself to a superb hat-trick. But he also showed the infuriating side of his game by squandering chances when team-mates were better placed.

At 3-0 up it didn't matter but Bruce is just as prone to do it when its 1-1 with five minutes to go.

Coppell said: "Bruce has not yet fulfilled his potential and the whole game was typical of him. His touch and final ball sometimes lets him down but he has a resilience and a desire to learn."

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