- Jaydee Canvot ‘benefitted’ from Marc Guehi Crystal Palace exit
- Ex-Man City man Joleon Lescott assesses French defender
- Canvot doesn’t want to be Guehi’s heir
Joleon Lescott has lavished praise on Jaydee Canvot, who he believes has been a quick learner and stepped up since Marc Guehi’s departure. The young French centre-back has become a starter since the former Crystal Palace captain’s exit.
Guehi left Palace for Manchester City in January, joining Pep Guardiola’s Citizens in a £20m deal. The English defender was seen as a massive loss for Oliver Glasner due to his importance in defence.
Canvot joined the Eagles from Toulouse last summer and initially looked to be one for the future. But excellent performances and Guehi’s departure have earned him a regular starting role.
‘Learning Fast’ – Lescott on Canvot
Lescott knows all about the growth of a young defensive prospect having broken into the senior team at Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2000-01 at the age of 17. He gave his thoughts on Canvot and how he’s performed since Guehi left (via TNT Sports):
“He’s learning fast, and he’s also benefiting from Marc (Guehi)’s departure as much as he would probably have learnt from Marc. The fact that he’s more secure now and knows he’ll be selected. That allows him to relax in the game and also gives him experience.”
Canvot has appeared 33 times across competitions, putting in superb shifts alongside Chris Richards and Maxence Lacroix. He starts tonight’s UEFA Conference League semi-final second leg against Shakhtar Donetsk.
Canvot: I’m Not Guehi’s Replacement
While Canvot is Guehi’s de facto heir, he doesn’t see it that way. The 19-year-old explained earlier this season that he wants to be his own player.
Canvot said:
“At the end of the day, Marc Guehi or not, I am not here to take anyone’s place. Marc is Crystal Palace legend and his exit left a big void but at the same time it opened doors for me. It freed up space and I took my chance.“
Canvot has proven to be a stellar piece of business from Palace and there’s a good chance his form means a new defender isn’t required this summer. He will be playing under a new manager though as Glasner departs at the end of the season.
