CRYSTAL PALACE MANAGER Roy Hodgson revealed his regret regret over failing to tie Wilfried Zaha’s international allegiance to England following the winger’s brace against Brighton and Hove Albion.
The Abidjan-born forward made two appearances for England under Hodgson’s ill-fated stewardship before opting for a switch to Ivory Coast in 2016.
He has since blossomed into a key force for Palace, leading the way in the crucial 3-2 victory on Saturday that lifted his side six points clear of the drop zone.
With three goals in his last two Premier League appearances and seven in total for the season, Hodgson conceded he erred in not ensuring Zaha’s loyalties rested with England.
“I gave him his [international] debut as a Crystal Palace player, he got a big move to Manchester United so we didn’t follow up on it enough. I would have to say I bear some responsibility there,” said Hodgson.
“To be honest he’d have been more than happy to play for England. I think he was just seduced by the Ivory Coast and part of the seduction was ‘you won’t play a lot of games for England, so sign for us instead’.
“But there are moments in time for footballers. Let’s be fair. At the moment, this season, Wilf has been in superb form. But there were years before, especially the United years, where perhaps he wasn’t the Wilf Zaha you see today.
“Unfortunately national team selectors and football coaches don’t have crystal balls. We can’t be certain.”
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Zaha is better off without the baggage of being involved with the England national team. He can concentrate on his football without the constant english media agenda which would only put him on a pedalstal so that they could knock him down and possibly destroy him in the process….
This lad will end of up at Liverpool to rotate salah and mane
@Carl Johnson: you spelled replace wrong
@David Clarke: I can only see rotate David.
@David Clarke: Your bitterness is showing. Absolutely nothing linking him with a move away only rival fans praying he does so that Liverpool lose a savage player. “Off to real/barca in summer” comments on every story. What will they say when he goes nowhere? “Well he’ll be off next year” “Liverpool are a selling club”
Screencap this. It’s NOT going to happen
Alright alright, calm down calm down.
@Carl Johnson: how many accounts have you got now Marcus?
@Johnny Bravo: Oh look! It’s bitter Johnny Bravo!
Zaha is unplayable at times a unique talent,could have a great world cup
@Graham Gallagher: I’m sure Ivory Coast will have a fantastic World Cup
I wonder would Mr grelish consider changing again hes gonna be some player
@Tommy D: would you take back an ex if she cheated on you???