Roy Hodgson: It’s unfair to pin Crystal Palace survival hopes on Wilfried Zaha

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Jack Rosser @JackRosser_19 October 2017

Roy Hodgson says it’s unfair to suggest that Crystal Palace’s survival hopes are down to Wilfried Zaha alone, after the forward made a triumphant return against Chelsea.

Zaha, making his first appearance since the opening day defeat to Huddersfield Town, scored the winner against the Premier League champions on Saturday as Palace registered their first points, and goals, of the league season.

While Zaha’s return is clearly a boost for the Eagles, who travel to Newcastle this weekend, Hodgson has warned that they cannot hang their hopes on him alone.

“He’s a top class player, he has been a talisman for Palace in the past,” the former England manager said.

“But football is a team game, it’s unfair to suggest that it’s down to one man to get us out of the mess we are in.

“I was delighted for him, it was a good performance especially having been out for six weeks.

“I’m hoping we’ll get another 30 performances like that again.

“If you’re asking me do I think he’s a great player with the great future and the ability to get even better then it’s a resounding yes.”

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