Malcolm Ebiowei Can Be Crystal Palace’s Next Zaha

Crystal Palace has found a heir in Malcolm Ebiowei should Wilfried Zaha moves away from Selhurst Park this summer.

The 18-year-old joined from Derby County earlier in the summer and has already caught the eye with some of his performances in pre-season.

Last season saw the teenager make 16 appearances in the Championship for the Rams, in which he contributed one goal and two assists, earning a strong 6.85 rating for his performances.

While Vieira has a plethora of options out wide, including fellow young Nigeria-born talents Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise, Ebiowei will definitely be aiming to challenge for a first-team spot next season.

The youngster would have some significant boots to fill if Zaha were to leave this summer, but he appears to have a huge amount of potential, and Vieira will be hoping that the teenager can adapt to the Premier League quickly after some impressive displays in the second-tier last season.

Derby coach Justin Walker was full of praise for Ebiowei last season, saying: “I think he has been a breath of fresh air. You can see how much the fans have warmed to him, he gets people out of their seats. He has got that little bit of X-factor, if you like, that creativity we have lacked at times in the final third.

“The only thing probably missing from his game is a goal, but I am sure that will come. He has got so much talent, and more importantly his attitude and his character.”