Keith Millen, Crystal Palace caretaker manager, admits that he was surprised and shocked the same way to hear Tony Pulis had left the club with just two days before the start of the Premier League season.

He will be taking charge of the team for the trip to Arsenal after Pulis vacated from Selhurst Park on Thursday night. Millen also refused to rule himself out of the job on permanent basis. He said that it is rather too early for him to answer the questions of whether he will apply for the Palace job or retain his position. "I'll have to speak to the chairman and I've only had a brief conversation last night," Millen said.

"I don't know what his thoughts are and I am sure he doesn't yet. We have got to get over the shock of what has happened and try and focus on the game.

"I am shocked at the moment, I must admit. I had a phone call from the chairman last night and a brief conversation.

"We were frustrated because we didn't get the players in we wanted but we've had a good pre-season with the players and we are looking forward to the game tomorrow.

"It's been a big shock to me and I am sure it will be to the players. It's going to be a tough act to follow for someone but it's early days and we just have to get our heads round it."

Millen confirmed that he and Pulis has not spoken since the latter resigned from his position. Nonetheless, the caretaker manager remains positive and keen to the upcoming season-opener.

"We always knew it was going to be a tough game going to Arsenal first game of the season but it is one we are looking forward to.

"I need to remind them what a good pre-season we have had and get them looking forward to the game again.

"We are not going to change. We are ready, prepared for the game and I have just got to try to settle them down and get them ready."