Zaha - Crystal Palace

Wilfried Zaha crucial to Crystal Palace's Premier League survival - Damien Delaney

Crystal Palace defender Damien Delaney has reiterated the importance of Wilfried Zaha to Crystal Palace's survival in the English Premier League this season.

The 25-year-old has scored four goals this term and contributed two assists amid several dazzling displays but has struggled to remain fit, with his recent injury trouble ruling him out of national team assignment with Cote d'Ivoire.

And the Republic of Ireland defender is hoping the club will help the forward stay fit as his impacts will be significant to Palace’ avoiding the drop.

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“Without him, we lose someone with the ability to release pressure,” Delaney said.

“He is crucial [to Palace relegation survival], as has been documented when he does and doesn’t play.

“In the Premier League, you can get pinned in but with the way Wilf travels with the ball, he can keep it and give you a breather to get up the pitch. On top of that, the main threat is his goals and ability.”

“If we can keep him fit from now until the end of the season, it’ll definitely give us a better chance.”

Wilfried Zaha

Crystal Palace moved two places off the relegation zone after their win over Huddersfield Town and will hope to continue with the fight for survival when they host Liverpool on March 3.

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