‘Changed the game’ – Michael Olise earns praise from Palace boss Vieira after FA Cup heroics

Patrick Vieira said Michael Olise “changed the game” for Crystal Palace in the 2-1 FA Cup third round win against South London rivals Millwall at The Den.

Gary Rowett’s side took the lead in the 17th minute when Jack Butland gifted Benik Afobe the opener when put under pressure.

Olise brought the Eagles back into the game straight after half time when he curled a left-footed shot from just inside the area past George Long.

The 20-year-old then set up Jean-Philippe Mateta in the 58th minute with a pinpoint cross that led to the French forward planting a header past the Millwall goalkeeper.

“He was fantastic in the second half. He changed the game for us – his first 15 minutes in the second half was really good,” said Vieira. “He showed his talent, and that was really good for us as a team. Michael scored one, he hit the post, he created the second one, and he had a couple of chances where he came in on his left foot and didn’t hit the target.

“One of his strengths is when he is in that one-on-one situation.”

When asked if Olise was making himself hard to leave out of Premier League games, and if Jordan Ayew being away at the Africa Cup of Nations presented the opportunity to hand him a run of games, Vieira said: “Having Jordan away at the Africa Cup of Nations will give him more time to play in the Premier League.

“But what is important is that when you look at the first half and then the second half, it’s two different players.

“There is fantastic potential in that player, but at the same time, he needs time to keep developing himself. Those games that he will play in the future will help him to develop.

“We know how good he can be, and now what is important for us is to work together to improve that talent.”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD