Zaha signs new five-year deal

Wilfried Zaha has thanked the ‘amazing’ Crystal Palace fans after extending his contract at the club

Wilfried Zaha has committed his long-term future to Crystal Palace by signing a new five-year contract extension at Selhurst Park.

Zaha was reportedly a target for a number of other Premier League clubs after impressing for the Eagles this season.

The Ivory Coast international enjoyed his most prolific campaign in the top-flight of English football, scoring seven goals in 37 appearances to help Palace avoid relegation.

The 24-year-old winger enjoyed an impressive campaign with the Eagles

Tottenham had been linked with a move for Zaha this summer but the 24-year-old winger insists he is happy to remain with his boyhood club for the foreseeable future.

“Palace is in my heart and I don’t think the story is over,” said Zaha, who was recently voted the club’s Player of the Season for the second consecutive year.

Zaha was recently voted the club’s Player of the Season for the second consecutive year

“I spoke with Steve [Parish] and I think I still have more to give this club. The supporters have been amazing and I want us to do more than just stay in the league next year.

“I would like to thank the chairman for being a big part of my journey and his fellow owners for backing me and rewarding my progression. Let’s do this!”

Palace chairman Steve Parish described Zaha as a ‘talisman’ for the Eagles

Palace chairman Parish is delighted to have tied Zaha down to a long-term contract and believes the former Manchester United winger has become a real “talisman” for the Eagles during his two separate spells at Selhurst Park.

“Wilf has been with the club since he was eight years old and in the first team from the day I arrived,” said Parish, in a statement released on Palace’s website.

Palace are yet to appoint Sam Allardyce’s successor at Selhurst Park

“He is our talisman and someone that week in week out gives everything for the Red and Blue. I’m delighted he has committed his future to us and look forward to climbing up the table with him next year.”

Parish’s attention will now turn to the club’s search for a new manager, following Sam Allardyce’s shock resignation earlier this month.

Allardyce stepped down from his role less than six months after taking charge of the club and says he currently has currently has “no ambition to take another job” in football.

Former Hull boss Marco Silva and Garry Monk are among the favourites to replace Allardyce at Selhurst Park.