Winger Kaikai can have impact at Palace, says Allardyce

Sam Allardyce has backed Crystal Palace youngster Sullay Kaikai to make an impact at Selhurst Park, after the young winger made his long-awaited first start for the Eagles.

Since 2013, Kaikai has earned first-team experience in the lower leagues during loan spells with Shrewsbury Town, Crawley Town and Crawley Town.

This season’s loan move to Championship side Brentford was cut short in January as Palace recalled the 21-year-old forward.

Kaikai started his first game for Palace in the 2-1 home victory over Bolton Wanderers in the FA Cup third round replay on Tuesday.

Photo by Ian Walton/Getty Images

And manager Allardyce believes Kaikai’s confidence in his own ability will carry him in good stead as he looks to establish himself in the Eagles’ first-team.

“He wasn’t overawed,” said Allardyce. “He even took a free kick from 45 yards out and tried to bend it in – that’s youngsters for you.

“It shows belief in his own ability and actually, the other free kick he hit was very close.

“So I think he has got a lot about him and he has got good movement and touch, and with time, if he is a good learner, he could have an impact in his career here at Crystal Palace.”