Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson should hand Jesurun Rak-Sakyi his first Premier League start of the campaign against Newcastle United this weekend.
The ‘exciting‘ 21-year-old replaced the injured Jeffrey Schlupp during the first half against Nottingham Forest before the international break.
During his 64 minutes on the pitch against Steve Cooper’s side, the winger enjoyed success against Harry Toffolo, looking like a real threat in the final third.
His raw pace and power to beat the opposition caused Forest trouble throughout the 0-0 draw, with Rak-Sakyi looking like Palace’s biggest threat going forward.
Rak-Sakyi deserves a start this weekend
With Palace’s current injury concerns in attacking areas, Rak-Sakyi has more than deserved his opportunity to start from the off against Eddie Howe’s Newcastle.
Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise are Hodgson’s key players in the attacking third, but with both out injured, youngster Rak-Sakyi could provide the bright spark Palace are looking for.
His quick feet and pace could cause Newcastle defender Dan Burn some serious problems on Saturday, should the 21-year-old be given his first Premier League start since May 2022.
Hodgson on Rak-Sakyi
Speaking to the club’s media after the Forest game, Palace boss Hodgson was full of praise for the youngster after his performance
“I was delighted for him,” Hodgson said. “He came back from a very successful loan spell. There were a lot of clubs interested in taking him again.
“I had to fight with him a little bit to persuade him that if he really wants to be a Premier League player he is in the best place and chances will come, and today he got that chance and I think he took it extremely well.”
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