Former Crystal Palace midfielder Darren Ambrose says Wilfried Zaha would get a statue if he stays with the Eagles for the rest of his career, and he believes the Ivory Coast international will remain at Selhurst Park.
Besides a two-year spell at Manchester United – which included a loan move to Cardiff – £36m-valued Zaha has spent his entire career with Palace, and is a hugely important player. In recent years, he has been linked with a move away, with Everton and Borussia Dortmund amongst the clubs said to be in pursuit, but a switch has not materialised.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Ambrose suggested the 29-year-old would get a statue if he avoids the temptation to move. He said, “I think he’s massively underrated, Wilfried, I’ve always thought that. 12 league goals already this season again, that surpasses his 11 last season. He’s so important to Crystal Palace, he’s a Palace boy. If they (the club) want to earn any money, he has to go this summer, but I can see him staying.
“Patrick Vieira’s got a great relationship with him, he knows how to handle him, he knows where his best position is. I can see him signing a new contract. I think he’ll end his career at Crystal Palace, I could be wrong, I’ve not spoken to him about it. If he does, he’ll have a statue outside Selhurst Park.”
TIF Thoughts on Zaha
Zaha has consistently been one of Palace’s most dangerous players going forward – he now has at least ten goals in each of the last three Premier League campaigns – and is a part of the fabric at the club. His talent has led to speculation he could depart, but he seems to be happy playing under Vieira right now.
Will Zaha stay?
Yes
No
At 29, the ship may have already sailed in regards to a move, but the future is bright at Palace anyway. Vieira’s arrival has coincided with a change in policy at the club, with young, exciting players now taking centre stage. Zaha can become an experienced leader in a dressing full of exciting talent, a role in which he could excel. Palace fans will be desperate to keep him as they look to move up the Premier League table.