Crystal Palace: 'Challenge' for Vieira involving £70.2m trio

Crystal Palace trio Eberechi Eze, Wilfried Zaha and Michael Olise could be ‘so brilliant to watch’ if they’re selected in the same starting lineup, according to journalist Tom Barclay.

Eze has been unable to build on his impressive maiden campaign in the Premier League this term due to injuries and a lack of form, while Zaha and Olise have shone throughout.

Eze arrived at Palace from Queens Park Rangers last summer in a deal that could rise to £20 million, and he made a big impression under the tutelage of former manager Roy Hodgson.

In 34 top-flight outings throughout 2020/21, the creative talent registered four goals and six assists in a side that was struggling for cutting edge in the final third of the pitch.

His outstanding displays for the Eagles caught the eye of England manager Gareth Southgate, who had named Eze – who is valued at £18m by Transfermarkt – in his provisional squad for Euro 2020 before disaster struck.

The youngster is believed to have returned to the dressing room after injuring his Achilles in training to find a message from the Football Association telling him that he was in the senior squad for the first time.

That setback ruled Eze out of action until 27 November, but he’s struggled to find his best form since and has had to settle for cameo appearances off the bench and opportunities in the FA Cup.

Meanwhile, Zaha – who is valued at £36m – has racked up 12 goal contributions under Patrick Vieira, while Olise – who is valued at £16.2m – has notched four goals and eight assists in 26 appearances across all competitions this season.

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And Barclay believes the in-form duo could form a formidable partnership with Eze