Crystal Palace defender Paddy McCarthy has warned Wilfried Zaha against leaving too early.

Liverpool, Newcastle, QPR and Fulham have been linked with Zaha, while Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp was among the spectators at Selhurst Park last night.

"Every week you come and see the improvement in these kids, and it comes from upstairs," McCarthy said.

"They are being managed the right way and it would be criminal for these lads to move on too early in their careers.

"They have the right man in charge now that won't hold them on too long.

"If he feels like they need to move on then he will do it, but he won't let them leave too early either as he has seen it with the likes of John Bostock and so forth."

However, McCarthy did little to play down Zaha's qualities, the 28-year-old adding: "He can go as far as he wants in the game, Wilfried. He is a special talent.

"He is probably the most naturally gifted individual I have ever come across in my career, and I have seen a lot."