The 22-year-old was part of the Palace side which lasted just one season in the top-flight in 2004/05 before missing out on an immediate return after losing in the play-off semi-final to Watford a year later.

Following last season's mid-table finish, chairman Simon Jordan demanded more but found his side languishing in 19th place in the Championship in October - form which cost former England coach Peter Taylor his job.

Jordan turned to Neil Warnock - who has enjoyed six promotions during his 22-year managerial career - and he has fashioned a remarkable upturn in fortunes.

The Eagles head into their play-off semi-final first-leg against Bristol City on the back of just one defeat in 12 league games - a late 2-1 loss at fellow play-off semi-finalists Hull.

Watson said: "I'm excited more than anything as we weren't expected to be in the play-offs. But we haven't achieved anything yet.

"Everyone knows that and it's down to us now to achieve it. Let's go and get in the Premier League.

"That's where everyone wants to be and play and hopefully we can do that.

"We go into every game thinking we can win it. The gaffer has given us team spirit. He's a character who gets everyone wanting to play football for him. There's not one person in the squad who isn't giving everything.

"The pressure hasn't been on us but now we're in there you've got to give it your best shot."

The Eagles beat the Robins 2-0 at home in January before earning a 1-1 draw at Ashton Gate a month later.

Watson has hailed the impact Warnock has made since his arrival and likens it to the one Iain Dowie made in 2003/2004 when they went all the way to the play-off final - and the Premier League.

"He's come in and brought in a couple of new faces which helped and brought everyone together," Watson added.

"It's exactly the same as 2004. When Iain Dowie took over then we were in the same position that we were this season.

"We went on to win it then but that was then and this is now. The team is totally different and there's only a few of us left from that side.

"If, when the gaffer had took over, you'd have said a win on the last day of the season would get us in the play-offs you'd take it.

"We might be expected to go up now because the manager's record in the play-offs is awesome and hopefully this will be another one.

"The kids play with no fear. They've just come in and done what they're good at. They don't really understand the pressure and just get on with it. They are great to have around.

"If you get a run together in this league it's there for you."