Andros Townsend hopes Crystal Palace prove they can match Wilfried Zaha's ambitions this season.

Zaha is a pivotal player for Palace, but he's being targeted by a number of top-six clubs. The Eagles managed to fend off their interest this summer, but Townsend says they must continue to grow if their to keep the Ivory Coast international.

"He is massively important for us and if I am honest I did not think we would be able to keep him beyond the last window," said Townsend. "I am just very thankful that we did and hopefully he can have another good season.

"You talk about clubs have good windows and signing six or seven players, but for us keeping Wilf was a good window. He is a top player, for me one of the best players in the league. Hopefully we can keep him for many years to come."

Asked if Palace can do that, Townsend replied: "It depends on the season we have. If we can match his ambitions then I do not see why not."