Crystal Palace cult hero Attilio Lombardo believes Huddersfield Town have what it takes to stay in the Premier League – but a good start to the campaign is essential.

Affectionately known as ‘The Bald Eagle’, the 51-year-old Torino Assistant Manager spent two memorable years at Selhurst Park which included a temporary spell as caretaker player-manager.

However, the Italian was unable to prevent the side from being relegated from the top-flight amid a severe financial crisis and eventually left the club in January 1999, joining Serie A outfit SS Lazio.

Attilio Lombardo celebrates scoring a goal for Crystal Palace against West Ham United back in May 1998.
Attilio Lombardo celebrates scoring a goal for Crystal Palace against West Ham United back in May 1998.

Since retiring in 2002, Lombardo’s coaching career has taken in spells in Italy, Germany and Turkey as well as being co-assistant manager under Roberto Mancini at Manchester City between 2010-12.

And after watching David Wagner’s men close-up during Town’s final pre-season friendly ahead of tomorrow’s opening-day showdown at Palace, Lombardo believes the Premier League new boys could spring a surprise.

“I still watch the Premier League and, of course, hope Crystal Palace do well,” Lombardo said after the 2-2 draw in Jenbach last week.

“But I also think Huddersfield Town have what it takes to survive - the league is very difficult but then look at what Leicester City did a few years ago.

“Like in every league – whether it be England, Spain or Italy – it is important to start well.

“Huddersfield Town have shown they have enough in their performance against Torino and could catch Crystal Palace in transition.”