Jordan Ayew set to face Man United after impressive display in midweek against Leeds United

Published on: 05 December 2021

Ghana striker Jordan Ayew is expected to start for Crystal Palace when they face Ralf Rangnick's Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday.

The 30-year-old might not have scored so far this season but that didn't stop Eagles fans purring at his performance against Leeds United on Tuesday night at Elland Road.

Ayew was given a 6.7 rating from Crystal Palace supporters after the game - the same rating as midfielder Conor Gallagher and only a shade behind Tyrick Mitchell (6.8) at the top of the list.

He has divided fan opinion this term but has often been praised when he does play for his work rate and defensive attributes. At Leeds, in midweek though he caught the eye more often going forward - giving United full-back Pascal Struijk a torrid time in the opening 45 minutes.

Ayew's main competition for a spot in Patrick Vieira's team is Michael Olise, with the young winger already getting off the mark in a Palace shirt this season with a goal off the bench against Leicester in October.

The former Reading man's energy and skill on the ball has meant many Palace fans want him starting games in place of Ayew, though after getting that chance against Aston Villa, he failed to impress.

Ayew's performance at Elland Road now makes him the favourite to start on the right side against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

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