Hodgson in the dark over Zaha situation

Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson says he knows nothing more than the media reports about Wilfried Zaha’s potential exit this summer. The winger has been linked with a host of Premier League clubs this summer after suggesting late last term that he was looking for a new challenge.

Zaha is understood to have handed in a transfer request earlier this summer, however, that hasn’t been confirmed by the club. Arsenal were leading the race for the Ivory Coast international but their interest has waned and Everton are thought to be the frontrunners.

Premier League champions Manchester City have also been credited with an interest, although they are only expected to make a move if Leroy Sane departs.

Palace are priced at 6.00 to be relegated next season and would be severely weakened without Zaha, who has been their star performer over the past couple of seasons, and they won’t let him go unless their valuation is met. Hodgson may struggle to keep Palace clear of relegation without the 26-year-old but surprisingly he has admitted he is in the dark.

The former England manager claims Zaha has been dealing with chairman Steve Parish and is still yet to return following his exploits at the Africa Cup of Nations. Hodgson told Sky Sports: “He’s dealing with the chairman [Steve Parish].

“The chairman’s his link, they know each other very well and get on very well. Most of what’s going on with Wilf is going on between him and the chairman and I can’t enlighten you at all.

“What I know, you know. I know it through reading your websites and newspapers that this or that is happening, but I can’t enlighten you at all.”