Two Crystal Palace players singled out for praise from boss Patrick Vieira after 3-1 win over Everton

Patrick Vieira praised Will Hughes’ performance as “unbelievable” in his first start for Crystal Palace in the 3-1 win over Everton.

The 26-year-old made his first start for the South Londoners since making the switch from Premier League rivals Watford in the summer for a £6million fee.

Hughes recorded his first assist for the Eagles when James Tomkins hammered home his corner in the 62nd minute. He had made a 10-minute cameo in the 1-0 loss to Leeds prior to Sunday’s victory.

The former Derby midfielder’s last start came in Watford’s 2-0 loss against Brentford in May.

“I was really pleased with Will’s performance,” said Vieira. “He helped us to play really well with our build-up play from the back.

“For somebody who played their last game seven months ago, he had an unbelievable performance.”

Vieira also lauded James Tomkins after the defender scored Palace’s second goal of the afternoon.

“His performance today was fantastic – we’re talking about a player who didn’t start for the whole season, and then he played three games in a row last week,” said Vieira.

“Today, his experience and calmness helped us get through those difficult moments in the second half.

“He is really smart, and it was really good for him to play like that and get rewarded with the goal that he scored.”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD