Jean Philippe-Mateta promised Crystal Palace fans he will bury his next opportunity after blowing the chance to nick all three points against Everton on Sunday.
The France international went through one on one against Jordan Pickford in stoppage time at Selhurst Park but skewed horribly wide as the game finished 2-2.
He had earlier banged in from Tyrick Mitchell’s cross to equalise after Beto’s wonderful individual goal looked to have won it for the Toffees.
James Tarkowski and Ismaila Sarr netted in the first half of an engaging meeting that saw the visitors’ European hopes dashed whilst Palace basked in having reached the Conference League final on Thursday.
“I’m still annoyed about the chances but it’s OK,” said Mateta. “We came back two times and I think we deserved that point.
“This is Crystal Palace. We had the game on Thursday, and we wanted to win today and we nearly won, but in the end it’s one point.
“We never give up and that’s why I’m happy to be with this team.”
“Yeah, I tried to chip, but I think Tarkowski moved me again. I was not stable, but I should have scored that goal. Next time I will score.”
Crystal Palace contact club’s legendary manager with exit already confirmed
The south Londoners are casting their net far and wide.
Of course, the only thing on every Palace fan’s mind at the moment is the European final, but there is also the small matter of who will be in charge next season.
Since Oliver Glasner confirmed his decision to leave the club, the Eagles have been linked with a number of candidates, but Fabrizio Romano has revealed their number one target.
Crystal Palace’s ‘dream’ manager target revealed
Speaking on his personal Youtube channel, Romano revealed departing Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is the “dream” target and Palace have even made a proposal to the Spaniard with a big salary and control over signings.
“Iraola at the moment is a dream target for Palace.
“Palace want to try, Palace ARE trying, are prepared to offer really important money and almost total control in the transfer market.
“So he would have a really important role at Palace, the opportunity to live in London.
“My understanding is still nothing done or agreed, there is a proposal on the table to Iraola.”
The 43 year-old has guided the Cherries to within touching distance of European qualification, something which could also be on offer in SE25 if Glasner’s side are victorious in Leipzig.
And previous reports have suggested Iraola is open to the idea of joining Palace this summer.
Romano confirmed Iraola is set to wait and weigh up his options however, which may throw a spanner in the works if Chelsea and potentially both of Liverpool and Manchester United are on the hunt for a new manager.
Crystal Palace now plotting surprise move for £43m Brazilian star
The Eagles want to sign an “incredible” player this summer.
