Pearce positive about Zaha's fitness

Coach Stuart Pearce claims that he has no qualms over Wilfried Zaha’s fitness ahead of England’s European Under-21 Championship opener against Italy.

Zaha, who signed for Manchester United in January before being loaned back to Palace, missed most of Monday’s training with an ankle problem. Just last week he had helped Crystal Palace win promotion to the Premier League.

Early morning on Monday, he warmed up with his team-mates in Netanya before going off to work alone with physio Derek Wright.

Pearce added: “He’s on top form as you would expect after his contribution to the whole season for Palace and getting a move to Manchester United, and on top of that winning the play-offs.

“He’s been outstanding and he’s left the club back in the Premier League so he’ll be a cult hero with Palace for what he’s achieved for them,” said Pearce ahead of Wednesday’s match in Tel Aviv.