Adebayor: I have to set an example
New Crystal Palace striker Emmanuel Adebayor has said he must set an example for his new teammates, per ESPN FC.
The 31 year-old signed for the Eagles on a free transfer last week, after being released from Tottenham Hotspur last September.
The Togolese forward says he has already been warned by manager Alan Pardew about his conduct, but added that his new boss wants him to take up a key leader’s role with Palace:
He said I have to be a leader. Which means I have to set an example. Which means I have to come training on time, do my job professionally and that is what I am doing.
Adebayor came off the bench in Tuesday’s 2-1 home defeat to Bourmeouth and missed a chance to equalise late on, but the striker dismissed concerns over his match sharpness:
I have not played a full game since May but I think have played more than these guys in the Premier League. It is quite easy to organise a game in Africa. I just had to call some of my friends and tell them I was in the mood to play football. Then we would play a proper game with proper professionals
Speaking about his new teammates and supporters, Adebayor also added:
The players have made it easy for me. The lads have made it easy for me. It is a good squad with good players and I can guarantee that the squad in the dressing room is one of the best. It makes life easier for me. The fans already love me, so I have to do my best. I always have a smile on my face.
Adebayor will be hoping to improve on his performance from Tuesday night in future matches, but it is at least reassuring to hear that the striker is settling in well at Selhurst Park.
If the Togo international can continue to work in a professional manner and regain his match fitness under Alan Pardew, he could yet become the striker Crystal Palace have desperately needed this season.