‘You know his quality’ – Eberechi Eze highlights Michael Olise’s role in Crystal Palace’s goal at Brentford

Eberechi Eze highlighted Michael Olise’s quality for Crystal Palace’s opener in their 1-1 draw with Brentford on Saturday.

The Greenwich-born playmaker – who started as a substitute at the Gtech Community Stadium – opened the scoring for Palace in the 69th minute against the Bees.

Olise, 21, received the ball on the right-hand side of the penalty area, shifted the ball onto his left foot, and curled a pinpoint cross for Eze to head beyond David Raya.

Speaking with PalaceTV, Eze said: “I know Michael’s quality, and he can put the ball where he wants it when he cuts inside.

“He wants to come on his left foot and either he shoots or crosses, so just being in the right space helps. I was just in the right position.”

Vitaly Janelt denied the Eagles all three points in second-half added time when he was left unmarked inside the penalty area and headed Bryan Mbuemo’s cross past Vicente Guaita.

Palace were on course to record their first win of 2023.

“We worked hard and we gave everything today. It feels bad not getting the three points,” added ex-QPR man Eze.

“It’s easy to speak now, but in the moment, there are so many things going on – there are probably lots of reasons why we conceded. 

“We just have to pick ourselves up and go again.”

Eze has dropped out of the starting 11 in recent weeks, only starting one of Palace’s last four Premier League games under Patrick Vieira.

Speaking on breaking back into the side, Eze said: “I just need to work hard and try my best. When I’m called upon, I try to deliver.”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD