ALAN Pardew has admitted that he'd be satisfied with finishing one place above the relegation zone this year.
After witnessing what Tony Pulis did at the club last season, the task of following his work will be tough, with the 40-point barrier still the aim to achieve safety.
Pardew says the squad have a good feeling about climbing up the table but are under no illusions with how difficult it will be, with an in-form Tottenham side up next at Selhurst Park.
The boss hopes to add "one or two" new faces to freshen up and boost their survival chances, and improving the home form is vital.
"I think we have a tough challenge and we find ourselves in the top three at the moment," said Pardew.
"There are 18 games to go and the home form is not good so we need to make sure our home situation into a positive for us.
"In terms of the players I think they need a lift, hopefully by my arrival and maybe a signing or two could do that.
"And then I think hopefully we can go on a run that get us at least to safety.
"Realistically this year, even though there was a terrific ending under Tony Pulis last season, one place above relegation this time would be enough to build this club again with the finances which come with it.
"You have to legislate that 40 point is your mark every year and so therefore somewhere around that region we have to aim for.
"I think there is definitely a feeling among the players that they can do it and that's a good thing. You need that."
By Mark Ritson (Twitter @MR_LWMedia)
