Roy Hodgson has praised Wilfried Zaha’s professionalism amid speculation linking him with a big-money move away from Crystal Palace this summer.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of Palace’s Premier League clash at Manchester United, Hodgson bristled when asked once more about Zaha’s future with Palace.
“Nothing’s changed at all since the last 230 times I’ve spoken on the subject,” he said.
“He’s fit, well and looking forward to the weekend.
“I’m pretty sure when something major happens on the Zaha front, the mass media will be the first to know.”
Palace are desperate to hold on to their prized asset, but the 28-year-old could be keen to prove himself at one of the Premier League’s big guns after his disappointing stint at Manchester United.
But Hodgson insisted speculation was not distraction for the Ivory Coast international.
“As far as I’m concerned I’ve not had problems with Zaha’s demeanour,” he added.
“He’s gone about his business professionally and done his best to help the team to win.”
Palace remain without a quartet of defenders for the trip to Old Trafford, with James Tomkins, Gary Cahill, Nathan Ferguson and Patrick Van Aanholt all missing, but forwards Christian Benteke and Connor Wickham were back in training today, while Hodgson hopes Jairo Riedewald will train on Friday.