Vieira ‘happy’ to see Eriksen return ahead of ‘very difficult’ Brentford trip

Dan Butterfield
Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira

Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira has revealed his joy at seeing Christian Eriksen return to the Premier League but is fully focused on the task at hand when they face Brentford.

Palace travel to Brentford on Saturday afternoon as they look to return to winning ways in the league after a run of four games without a victory.


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Their opponents are also struggling for form. The Bees have suffered six consecutive defeats in all competitions but Vieira is well aware of the threat they pose.

“It’s a different challenge from the last game. We know what to expect and we have to be up for it, they are a very difficult team to play at home.”

The Palace boss also praised the work of Brentford boss Thomas Frank in getting the Bees promoted.

“I think when the team comes up from the Championship and does well in the Premier League the manager is a massive part of that. The team, the way they play and the way they organise, the work from the manager is massively important. They’ve been doing a fantastic job in the way they’re playing in the Premier League. All the credit to him.”

Danish star Eriksen could make is return to professional football for the first time since suffering a cardiac arrest at the European Championships and Vieira is delighted to see the ex-Tottenham back.

“This is a happy story. To see him back on the field training and playing games I think is something we can enjoy. He loves the game and for him to be back on the field and to do what he loves is something we can all be happy about.”

The Eagles boss also praised talisman Wilfried Zaha for his performances and admitted the Ivorian has been helped by a number of other creative players in the side.

“He’s under contract so that means he is happy to wear the shirt and perform well. I think what’s good for him is to have players around him taking responsibility to take pressure off his shoulders.

“We have players who can score goals and deliver. The positive is having a team performance, it allows him to express himself.”

Zaha scored a stunner against Norwich in midweek but then missed a shocking penalty minutes later but his manager has confirmed the winger will remain on spot-kick duties.

“People always remember the last penalty. But when you look at his record it’s good so there’s no reason to change.”