Perhaps there won’t be many supporters rushing for their violins when they ponder Wilfried Zaha and his next run-up to judgment day.
The lure of £9million a year – after tax – in Saudi Arabia. Or the prospect of playing in the Champions League. Or the opportunity to enrich his legacy at Crystal Palace. Hardly lose-lose, is it? Hardly cause for an outpouring of sympathy from the stands.
And yet, for Zaha and the wider footprint he ultimately leaves on these shores, this next step matters. Big time.
The Ivory Coast international is out of contract at Selhurst Park in three months’ time.