Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson admits he's long been a fan of Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish.

Under pressure from Ireland, Hodgson helped persuade Grealish to pledge international allegiance to England during his time as national team manager.

“I always believed in him. It's very different going back five years to a very much younger Jack Grealish and someone just starting his rise to the top," said Hodgson.

“I have been impressed by the constant improvement over the years and in particular the last two seasons.

“I thought last season he was very good and showed a different maturity and level to his game and, if anything, he has kicked on even further this year.

“Now he's the first name on everyone's lips when you are preparing for a match against Aston Villa because he's somebody you know you are going to have to try and stop – or at least limit – the good things he's going to do during the game."