WILFRIED ZAHA went on to reveal his admiration for former boss Roy Hodgson, who saw his Watford side relegated following defeat on his return to south London.

The pair shared a hug at full-time and it seemed like Zaha told the veteran manager to walk towards the tunnel alone to soak up the fine reception afforded to him by the Palace supporters for his four years of service.

Zaha's first-half penalty was enough to give Palace three points and boost their hopes of a top-half finish, however, the defeat relegated Hodgson's Hornets.

This Is Local London: Roy Hodgson announced his retirement from football after Watford were relegatedRoy Hodgson announced his retirement from football after Watford were relegated

Zaha said: “Roy was here for a couple of years and was good to me.

“I appreciate what he has done for me so it was only right that I welcome him back. I felt like it was a must, because of our relationship, we had a good relationship when he was here.”

Hodgson has confirmed that once his contract expires at Watford at the end of the season he will intend to retire from football for once and for all.

Zaha does not have such good history with Watford, having once been mocked by their club mascot Harry the Hornet and it was also the penalty he won in the 2013 Sky Bet Championship play-off final that helped Palace to promotion instead of the Hornets.

But he insisted: “I wish I cared as much as the fans about that for that to be extra because it was Watford.

“It was just another team. I am just focused on getting my goals for the team.

“My target was 15 and I am not far off that so it looks like I am on that path.”

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