Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish says he is already 'planning for the Championship' — and has challenged the players to make sure it is not needed.
The Eagles are currently in 17th place, but out of the Premier League's relegation zone only on goal difference.
While former England boss Roy Hodgson has overseen an upturn in fortunes since taking over during September — when the south-London club were rock bottom following four straight league defeats under Frank de Boer — there remains work to be done.
Palace, who have lost three of the past five matches, host Manchester United on Monday March 5, then travel to Chelsea before a key clash against fellow relegation battlers Huddersfield.