Wayne Hennessey is relieved Crystal Palace finally confirmed their Premier League status after a 2-1 win over Stoke City on Saturday.

Palace went a goal behind through Charlie Adam, but two second-half strikes – including a 25-yard free-kick from Dwight Gayle – saw Palace move onto 42 points.

Although safety has looked likely for the last couple of games, Hennessey insisted the Eagles were fully aware of their own task.

“We needed to do the business,” he said.

“We don’t care about anyone else we just want to take care of ourselves, and we’ve done that.

“Hopefully now we can carry on to Southampton, get a good result there and focus on the final.”

Palace struggled to create in the first 45 minutes, with Stoke backing off and hitting the home side on the break.

And Hennessey admitted manager Alan Pardew had a few stern words at half time, which made the difference.

“They had a couple of chances and our game plan didn’t work in the first half,” he added.

“Then we got back in and the gaffer had a good little shout at us and explained a few things and we changed the game as soon as we came out.

“The boys came out guns blazing, we were on the front foot and Stoke couldn’t keep hold of us.”

Hennessey was delighted teammate Gayle was able to score two goals in his first start since April 13, and believes the forward is on “fire”.

“Gayley is a top player and we’re absolutely delighted for him,” he said.

“We were actually hoping he would get his hat-trick but he’ll take two goals. He looks on fire at the moment and hopefully that can continue.”

Pardew addressed the home fans after the game, acknowledging Palace’s home form has not been up to standard since the turn of the year.

The win was only Palace’s second in the league in 2016 at Selhurst Park, but Hennessey thanked the fans for their support and said the players must improve.

“When we’ve needed that extra boost they’ve always given it to us,” he said.

“I still say they’re the loudest fans in the Premier League by a clear mile.

“Every single player in the dressing room agrees our home form needs to improve.”

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