Crystal Palace keeper Julian Speroni has talked about the “shock” of Tony Pulis’ sudden departure and was disappointed not to hold onto a draw with Arsenal at the weekend.

The Eagles put in a resolute performance in the late kick-off at the Emirates on Saturday but after Speroni blocked a header in the 90th minute the Gunners’ Aaron Ramsey was on hand to bury the rebound to finish the game 2-1. 

Speroni told News Shopper he was frustrated to have conceded two goals from set pieces and felt Palace deserved a drawer.

He said: “I feel disappointed the way we conceded goals and that we didn’t get something from the game.

“The ball came through people. I didn’t know a lot about it – it could’ve gone anywhere.

“They had lots of possession, of course. We tried to hit them on the counterattack – that was our plan.”

The Argentinian also mentioned learning of Pulis’ leaving Selhurst Park, just two days before the start of the season, was a blow – but that the team will carry on.

He explained: “I was very shocked. It was so close to the first game of the season.

“It was sad to see him go in this way. Obviously we all want the situation to be resolved soon.

“But we’re professionals, we need to continue. The spirit of this team is something I’ve never seen before. We can overcome anything.”

Speroni added it would not be right to comment on the managerial position, but did show his support for acting boss Keith Millen.

“He’s been brilliant. It’s not the first time he has done it. He’s always great – he was when Ian Holloway left.

“He’s been working with us for a long time. He knows what we’re all about.”

This morning (Aug 18) it was reported Palace chairman Steve Parish will announce a new manager in the next 48 hours, with ex-Cardiff chief Malky Mackay and former Spurs boss Tim Sherwood said to be the main two in contention.