Neil Warnock confident of Zaha loan deal

Neil Warnock hopes to complete the season-long loan deal to bring Wilfried Zaha back to Crystal Palace.

Warnock expects his first signing in his second stint as Palace boss will be to secure the services of Manchester United forward Zaha for the rest of the current campaign.

“I did speak to him last night,” Warnock admitted. “I spent half an hour telling him why I want him to come back and I’m optimistic we are going to do it today.”

Ivory Coast-born Zaha made more than 100 appearances in three years at Crystal Palace, progressing through the junior ranks at Selhurst Park. Zaha signed for United in 2013, but was then loaned back to the Eagles.

The 21-year-old was only able to muster two appearances for the Old Trafford outfit last term under then-boss David Moyes.

The England Under-21 graduate is deemed surplus to requirements under new manager Louis van Gaal, paving the way for another stint at Palace.

Warnock was appointed Palace's new manager yesterday, ending owner Steve Parish's lengthy search to replace Tony Pulis, who walked out of the club on the eve of the new season.

Former Sheffield United boss Warnock rubbished suggestions Zaha has an attitude problem, backing him to realise his rich potential in south London.

“When you get the chance, you can’t turn down Manchester United but there are so many big players there and sometimes you get a bit lost,” said Warnock.

“He is still developing, Wilfried, and he has got so much talent. When you are a wide player, or a forward, you need to feel loved.

“I’ve heard it said about his attitude, but I’ve always thought his attitude has been spot on, so I’m looking forward to working with him.”