It’s a family affair for the Bentekes at Crystal Palace
Christian Benteke’s younger brother Jonathan cannot wait for the first time the duo lead the line for Crystal Palace this season.
The younger sibling joined the Eagles around the same time as his elder brother, indeed Palace boss Pardew admitted it was largely on the strength of Christian’s recommendation that they signed up the 21-year-old.
He came off the bench against Middlesbrough for his Premier League debut – ironically replacing his older brother – but since then has picked up a knee injury that will keep him out of action until 2017.
But, after his contract with Belgian side Zulte Waregem was terminated, Benteke junior admits he is loving life in south east London.
“I was very surprised to be involved so quickly,” he said. “There were a lot of injured players so I got the chance to play. It was my first game in the Premier League so because of that it was amazing, but subbing for my brother made it even better.
“I thank the coach for my first appearance in the league. He told me to put pressure on the defence and help the midfield when we don’t have the ball, and when he came off Christian told me to run everywhere and enjoy the moment.
“After the game all my family were really happy for me, especially my dad who was delighted to see his two sons playing together. Christian told me it was just the beginning and that I had a long road left.
“If I got the chance to play alongside Christian it would mean a lot because playing with him is great. We played together several times in the streets with friends when we were young and we really enjoyed it.”
And the younger Benteke admits he has been dreaming of joining the Premier League since he was a kid.
“It has always been my dream to play in the Premier League as I’ve been watching Match of the Day since I was little. The fact that Christian plays here also made me want to play here more because of the great atmosphere, the stadiums and the supporters. England is different from Belgium – it’s a real football country and everybody follows it,” he added.
“The first time that I came to a game at Selhurst Park I noticed the amazing atmosphere. The supporters are really behind the team and cheer them on, so I’m waiting for the moment where I could play there.”
