---
title: "Hodgson insists his side must not become reliant on Zaha"
canonical: "https://readcrystalpalace.com/2017/10/19/hodgson-insists-side-must-not-become-reliant-zaha/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Luke Osman"
section: "Crystal Palace News"
published: "2017-10-19T16:37:46Z"
modified: "2017-10-19T16:37:46Z"
---

# Hodgson insists his side must not become reliant on Zaha

Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson has insisted that his side must avoid becoming over-reliant on Wilfried Zaha this season.

As quoted by the [BBC](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/41685412), the former England manager spoke of how big a boost it is to have Zaha back in contention and ready for action. However, Hodgson did stress that the whole team must pull together to push this side up the table, instead of relying solely on the Ivory Coast international.

> It’s not down to one man. It’s about the team. It’s unfair to suggest that it’s down to one man to get us out of the mess we are in.

![Clive Rose/Getty Images Sport](https://media.readcrystalpalace.com/readcrystalpalace/sites/17/2017/10/861285174-1.jpg)

Zaha made his first start since the opening day of the season against Chelsea at the weekend, and proved to be the difference in the game. The tricky wide man scored the decisive goal as Palace claimed their first three points of the season with a 2-1 win.

> If you asked me if he’s a great player with a very bright future, who can only get better, I’d answer with a resounding yes.

The Eagles remain rooted to the bottom of the Premier League, but took massive steps in their pursuit of survival with the win over Antonio Conte’s side.

Palace will now hope to secure their first away win of the season when they travel to Newcastle United.