Pulis hails Zaha talent

Wilfried Zaha can add Tony Pulis to his growing list of admirers after Crystal Palace's 0-0 draw with Stoke in the FA Cup.

Last Updated: 06/01/13 at 13:11 Post Comment   

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Wilfried Zaha: Impressed Tony Pulis

Wilfried Zaha: Impressed Tony Pulis

Wilfried Zaha can add Tony Pulis to his growing list of admirers after Crystal Palace's goalless draw with Stoke in the FA Cup.

Eagles winger Zaha is the most sought-after player in the npower Championship this January, with the likes of Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal vying for his signature.

And the 20-year-old illustrated why with another all-action performance in the third-round tie against the Potters.

A late challenge from Ryan Shotton - missed by referee Neil Swarbrick - brought a premature end to Zaha's afternoon, but Stoke boss Pulis had already seen enough.

"He looks a terrific player," said Pulis.

"He's got great feet and his balance, like all great players, is wonderful.

"He can go either side and he shifts people without even touching the ball. He's a top, top player."

While Zaha lasted 55 minutes at Selhurst Park, a player seemingly at the opposite end of his career had already left the action.

Michael Owen had been substituted two minutes before, having struggled to make an impact on his first start in 14 months.

The 33-year-old striker reprised his old England partnership with Peter Crouch, but the once dynamic duo barely had a sniff of goal.

"We were always going to give Michael until just after half-time and then bring him off," added Pulis.

"He needs more games, and you could see that. But we are really pleased he got through it without any problems."

Owen's 53-minute run-out matched precisely how long he had managed on the pitch in four previous substitute outings since joining Stoke in September.

He may be short of fitness but this was hardly the sort of display to strike fear into the hearts of Premier League defences over the second half of the season.

Reports emanating from Australia yesterday claimed representatives of the former Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid frontman were in talks over a potential move to Perth Glory.

But Pulis said: "We've not heard anything about that. I think Michael's happy where he is. He's a great kid."

While Owen and Crouch failed to test Palace goalkeeper Lewis Price, Thomas Sorensen had to make fine saves to deny Zaha, Jermaine Easter and Yannick Bolasie in the Stoke goal.

However, Palace had to settle for a replay they could probably do without as they battle for promotion.

"Overall we were happy with the display but unfortunately we could not get the goal," said Eagles captain Mile Jedinak.


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