Pavel Srnicek defends Tim Krul

Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Pavel Srnicek has defended Tim Krul after he came in for criticism following the club's 3-3 draw with Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Krul was at fault for Palace's first goal, palming Marouane Chamakh's effort straight to Dwight Gayle after just 30 seconds.

Writing in Chronicle Live, Srnicek said: "I was surprised to see Tim getting criticism because for me, he's one of the best players that Newcastle have had for the last three years. Two seasons ago I think he was the best goalkeeper in the Premier League and he has the ability to get back to that level this year."

The 26-year-old joined Newcastle in 2005.