Odsonne Edouard gets candid Crystal Palace verdict from Patrick Vieira amid post Celtic slump

Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira will offer former Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard a lifeline at Selhurst Park despite struggling for form.

The Frenchman got off to the perfect start in the English Premier League after leaving Parkhead.

He netted twice on his debut for the Eagles as he emerged from the bench late on to see off Tottenham.

Since then, he has netted just seven times in all competitions and has been relegated to the fringes of the Crystal Palace squad.

Jordan Ayew, Christian Benteke and Jean-Philippe Mateta were all handed minutes against Leeds United on Monday while Edouard watched from the bench.

Vieira reckons the former Celtic hero has struggled to maintain his form this campaign, but will give the striker a chance to make his mark during the final five games of the season.

When asked about Edouard's form this season ahead of the clash with Southampton on Saturday, the Palace boss said: "He had a really good start and played good football.

"I think he had a bit of a dip and we have other players around who play well.

“Now he has to keep fighting. He will play in the next couple of games.”

Despite a disappointing final season in Glasgow's east end, Edouard still netted 22 goals in all competitions before leaving the Scottish Premiership for a fee that could rise to £18.5m.