Wilfried Zaha, Crystal Palace Agree to 5-Year Contract Extension

Crystal Palace and Wilfried Zaha agreed to a five-year contract extension on Thursday, the club announced.

The winger said in a press release:

"Palace is in my heart and I don't think the story is over. I spoke with [chairman] Steve [Parish] and I think I still have more to give this Club. The supporters have been amazing and I want us to do more than just stay in the League next year. I would like to thank the Chairman for being a big part of my journey and his fellow owners for backing me and rewarding my progression. Let's do this!"

He also had a message for his Twitter followers:

Zaha has long been one of the most naturally talented wide players in the Premier League, combining blistering pace and breathtaking pieces of skill at his best.

However, during his time with Palace, he's been unable to appropriately harness his ability on a consistent basis. Indeed, Zaha has a penchant for being erratic with his end product.

There were signs of improvement throughout 2016-17, though. While Palace found wins tough to come by, Zaha was a menace on both flanks and made some vital contributions to his side. The 24-year-old finished with seven goals and nine assists in the Premier League for the Eagles.

Contract stability may bring the best from Zaha, though he will have to adjust to a new manager after Sam Allardyce's stunning decision to leave the club on Tuesday.

His next manager may demand more from his forward players, both in the final third and in terms of defensive duties. More responsibility, in turn, may draw a greater level of maturity from the former Manchester United man.

The maturation process is one Zaha needs to undergo with Palace if he is to realise his potential. There have always been glimpses of a player with game-changing abilities at Selhurst Park, although stringing together these performances in succession has proved to be a huge challenge for him.