Ireland defender Cyrus Christie makes Premier League debut for Fulham

Republic of Ireland defender Cyrus Christie made his Premier League debut as a starter for Fulham in their 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace on Saturday.

The right-back made just his second start for the London club since joining in the January transfer window as the Cottagers were bested by their local rivals managed by ex-manager Roy Hodgson.

Jeffrey Schlupp put the Eagles ahead against the run of play before half time, and Wilfried Zaha made sure of the three points with a smart finish late on.

The former Coventry City, Derby County and Middlesbrough full-back performed well in spite of his side coming out the wrong side on their return to England's top tier.

With his competition for the right-back spot in the national team Seamus Coleman also starting in Everton's 2-2 draw with Wolves, Ireland look well-stocked in one crucial department.