Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson delighted with Ebere Eze’s progress – but also has message about ‘building him up’

Roy Hodgson has urged against overhyping Ebere Eze – but has stated his complete satisfaction at the way he has bedded in at Crystal Palace.

The attacking midfielder was one of the outstanding talents in the Championship before a big money switch from QPR to SE25 in the close season.

And Eze dribbled from box to box before dispatching beyond Aaron Ramsdale in last weekend’s 2-0 victory over Sheffield United to claim an excellent individual goal.

The Greenwich-born player also netted a superb free-kick in the win against Leeds United in South London.

Hodgson said: “He’s done very, very well. He’s scored two very good goals. He’s definitely progressing and showing all the skills that we bought him for.

“We’re delighted with him, but don’t forget he is still a young man and in the early part of his career. He’s still dealing with the step up, if you like, from playing in the Championship to playing in the Premiership.

“I’d like people to bear that in mind when they are talking about him and not build him up to such an extent that he might not be able to stay at that high platform forever.

“We’re very happy with him. I believe strongly in him as a player. If he can keep doing what he’s been doing so far then we’ll be more than satisfied.”