Premier League hits and misses: Wilfried Zaha reminds admirers of his quality; Thomas Tuchel under pressure as Chelsea stutter

Sensational Zaha reminds admirers of his quality ahead of Deadline Day

Thomas Frank described it as “unbelievable magic” and it certainly felt like Wilfried Zaha was the only player on the pitch at Selhurst Park on Tuesday night capable of scoring his opening goal.

Aaron Hickey had been excellent in the first half, restricting Palace’s fit-again talisman and twice blocking his shots at goal. But the right-back only had to give Zaha an inch of space on the edge of the box to be punished on the hour mark.

It was Zaha’s 13th Premier League goal of 2022 and fourth goal in four appearances this season. It’s no wonder Chelsea and Arsenal have been linked with a late move for him, especially as his Palace contract expires at the end of the season.

• Crystal Palace 1-1 Brentford – Match report and highlights
• How the teams lined up | Match stats

Afterwards, Zaha couldn’t hide his frustration at Brentford’s late equaliser but insisted he was fully focused on Palace, describing the club as a family.

Those bonds could be tested in the coming days if a sizeable offer comes in – and on current form, Palace’s London rivals may struggle to recruit a more dangerous forward.
Peter Smith

Fulham have stomach for survival fight

The noise inside Craven Cottage told you all you needed to know. Fulham deserved this victory, but in the Premier League you’ve got to earn them – and that’s exactly what Marco Silva’s side did.