Crystal Palace's Carling Cup semi-final against Cardiff City tonight will once again provide Premier League clubs with the chance to cast an eye over the Eagles' talented youngsters players, writes Sam Ross.

Wilfried Zaha, despite signing a new contract in December, and Nathaniel Clyne have both been linked with moves away from the club in the January transfer window and Eagles manager Dougie Freedman revealed he has spoken to a number of managers about his prized assets.

While fans are sure to enjoy a terrific atmosphere at an almost sold out Selhurst Park tonight, some will be worried about who else will be watching their young stars.

"I have had no official offers from clubs but I have spoken to a number of managers," said Freedman.

"And when certain managers ask me about them, and they are the managers who I am in awe about, I tell them exactly what they're like."

But Freedman is far too aware of what can happen if young players rush a move to the Premier League.

In his time at Palace, he has seen Wayne Routledge, Ben Watson, Victor Moses and John Bostock all leave after coming through the academy ranks.

"To me it's sad, they have turned into average Premier League players now," he said.

"I think a couple of hundred games in the Championship really puts you in good stead.

"I tell my young players they are good players and they are working on bits and pieces, I let them know exactly where we are.

"My dream is to keep them long enough to be in the Premier League. It's something I'm working to. I've got a good board and one who trusts me and one who likes to see the young players."