Christian Benteke told he has to cope with pressure of shooting Crystal Palace to Premier League safety
Christian Benteke has been told he has to cope with the pressure of firing Crystal Palace to safety.
The striker made his return from a knee injury in Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Everton but missed a big chance near the end of the contest.
“The fact he is a big-money signing for the club means there is a lot of expectancy,” said Eagles manager Roy Hodgson. “He’ll have to live up to those expectations.
Image by Keith Gillard
“He had a good chance and missed it. If he does that week after week – gets a very good chance and misses them – I don’t think people will be saying ‘don’t worry – we’ve got Benteke to come back’.
“The two up front [Andros Townsend and Wilfried Zaha] did very well. They terrorised them, particularly Zaha.”
Hodgson was keen to praise his midfield. James McArthur, operating in a wide left role, opened the scoring after just 55 seconds.
Crystal Palace v Everton, Premier League, Selhurst Park, 18 November 2017.
Image by Keith Gillard
“Ruben [Loftus-Cheek] will get the major plaudits – that’s fine. He had a very good game. But all four were excellent.”