Ahead of the trip to Crystal Palace in the Premier League this weekend, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on one of the players who have been strongly linked with a move to the Emirates stadium over the past year.

The Gunners have remained silent in the transfer window so far, even though some may believe it is clear that the squad is desperately in need of reinforcement in order to successfully compete for a place in the top four of the Premier League.

Arsenal have been linked with a move for a number of players over the past month and one of them has been Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha.

The Express even reported recently that the Gunners would be battling with rivals Chelsea for the signature of the forward.

And speaking ahead of the clash with Palace which could see Zaha face Arsenal, Mikel Arteta has spoken in admiration of the 27-year-old, who is earning £130,000-a-week at Selhurst Park (Guardian).

The Arsenal boss lauded the Ivorian star for being a ‘phenomenal’ player in the Premier League over the last few years.

“I think he’s a terrific player and I think the impact he’s had in the Premier League in the last few years has been phenomenal,” Arteta said, as per the Express

“His ability to create chances on his own is unique.  We know Wilf and the type of talent he is.”

Regarding Saturday’s trip to Crystal Palace, Arteta added that his side would definitely pay attention to the threat of Zaha, who has been decisive on the last two occasions he has faced the Gunners.

“When he gets isolated in one-on-one situations, we know what he can do.” Arteta said

“Of course it will be part of the gameplan.”

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