Sunday 27 January 2019 20:13, UK
Roy Hodgson was delighted to see Connor Wickham back among the goals in Crystal Palace's FA Cup victory over Tottenham.
Wickham set Palace on their way with the opener on nine minutes, scoring his first goal for 799 days on what was his first start in 792 days.
Palace 2-0 Spurs: As it happened
The former Sunderland striker has endured an injury-ravaged time over the last few seasons, but Hodgson has welcomed his timely return to fitness and form.
"Two years and three months… incredible, isn't it. It's a credit to him," the Palace boss said.
"For Connor, to play and crown it with a goal, that's good news. We can leave Selhurst Park with a smile on our faces and see what awaits us in the fifth round.
"I believe and hope he can make a contribution, but that would be putting an awful lot of pressure on him.
"He's worked hard to get to where he is. I rested Jordan (Ayew) so he could play, and he took the opportunity.
"I'm very pleased with that. It's two-and-a-quarter years, though… playing for 70-75 minutes and getting a goal, it can't get much better than that.
"But for him to be considered back now to his prime, that's asking too much. He's training. That's why he can start."
