Dowie after bargains in window sale

Iain Dowie says Crystal Palace need to prove their Premiership ambitions in next month's transfer window.

The manager wants to bring in at least two established top-flight players to help them stay up.

Despite missing out on his main targets in the summer, amid rumours that chairman Simon Jordan had not fulfiled spending promises, Dowie is optimistic about his spending prospects.

He said: "We have to show we have a real desire to stay in the Premiership with some shrewd investments.

"The players have done well, but we need a bit of a lift and some encouragement that as a club we are moving forward and can attract certain types of players.

"We need more quality and strength in depth and to be a bit stronger physically. I want players who will have an immediate impact and improve the club for the second part of the season."

Dowie has been promised funds and has a good chance of signing West Brom defender Neil Clement, but enquiries about getting Charlton's Jason Euell on loan have been rejected.

One of the problems he faces is convincing potential recruits of Palace's prospects for survival and he is keen to land a big-name player to help encourage others.

The next few results could prove crucial in any transfer talks as Dowie's team have a chance to get out of the bottom three.

Palace play Portsmouth on Boxing Day at Selhurst Park then meet Tottenham, Fulham and Aston Villa before the January transfer window is in full swing.

Dowie said: "This is a key period. The 12 points that are available could make a huge difference to our season.

Palace have no new injuries ahead of Sunday's game.