Zaha signs Palace pro contract
by Daniel Jones
YOUNG striker Wilfred Zaha has signed his first professional contract with Crystal Palace.
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Wilfred Zaha has signed a pro contract at Crystal Palace
The 17-year-old made his first team debut against Cardiff last Saturday and impressed in a 10 minute cameo during the Eagles 2-1 defeat.
Zaha joined the club's successful Academy in the U10s age group after being spotted by scout David Webb.
He has made smooth progress through the ranks, but his development in recent months has been rapid.
"Wilf only broke into the U18s just before Christmas," explained Academy Manager David Moss. "He always had plenty of ability and did well for the U16s last year, but he was a relatively late developer and had aspects of his game that needed work.
"But he really came of age in the FA Youth Cup run. You learn a lot about players when they play on the big stage. Wilf did fantastically well playing at Selhurst twice and at St James' Park.
"He signed his first pro contract yesterday. He came in with the shirt he wore on Saturday and we are going to get it signed by all the other players."
Zaha looks certain to be involved for the first team again tonight when they take on relegation rivals Watford in a crucial Championship encounter at Vicarage Road.
9 Comments
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by tom, new york
Wednesday, March 31 2010, 6:53PM
“Luis, the problem is no-one is going to waste good money un an unproven prospect, even some kind of "holding fee" which turns out to be money down the drain if you dont want to sign the lad. by the time the player becomes attractive he will be signed, at a market rate, or at a tribunal fee, on the free market. the problem is the tribunals need to be better, your idea is not going to alleviate this problem. no team in their right mind would spend anything on a holding fee, and no team in their right mind would accept one, thus restricting a free and open transfer process when it comes time for the kid to move on.”
by Luis, Henfield
Tuesday, March 30 2010, 10:11PM
“Tom,generally yes but rules CAN be changed,for the better,to get money spread down the leagues and improve the chances of young players to progress.”
by tom, new york
Tuesday, March 30 2010, 7:37PM
“luis, generally first option to buy is awarded to the highest bidder, thus allowing for more revenue for palace, instead of a tribunal deciding the fee - remember bostock!!?”
by Luis, Henfield
Tuesday, March 30 2010, 7:24PM
“No Tom,the holding fee only gives you first option to buy at market price.”
by tom, new york
Tuesday, March 30 2010, 7:20PM
“Luis you're idea of a deposit is as fantastic as all of your other ideas. that way when the kid turns out to be the next messi we will be commited to sell him for tuppence cos we were given a 20 quid holding fee from spurs....ace.”