Ivorian footballer Wilfried Zaha has inked a new long-term deal at Selhurst Park in order to end the ongoing speculation over his future. The 24-year-old has decided to pen the extension shortly after Sam Allardyce announced his shock resignation from the managerial post.
Big Sam took over the head coach role from Alan Pardew back in December 2016 and managed to guide the Eagles out of the drop zone after having revitalized the squad which failed to realise its potential.
Zaha was one of the players, who was a particular highlight during Big Sam’s stay after he enjoyed his best season in the Palace shirt – seven goals and nine assists, thus earning the club’s Player of the Season award for the second year running.
According to Sky Sports News, via the Eagles official website, the winger has committed his future to Crystal Palace to a fresh five-year contract following a lengthy discussion with the club’s hierarchy.
Doubts had crept over Zaha’s position following Allardyce’s resignation, but the attacker has shown his loyalty towards the Eagles, who have played a key role in his development.
Zaha is now eager to push the Eagles to a position higher up in the table after the club managed to finish a respectable 14th in the league despite fighting relegation for most of the campaign.
The former Manchester United man also revived his international prospects during the 2016-17 season after he switched his allegiance to the Ivory Coast from England in order to realise his World Cup dream.
Zaha is understood to have received a significant increase on his current £35,000-a-week wages in order to prolong his stay, but the package remains undisclosed as of now.
Crystal Palace are yet to appoint a new manager after Big Sam’s exit, but Marco Silva and Garry Monk remain in contention after their respective departures from Hull City and Leeds United respectively.
Image – Getty