June 26 2009

Freddie Sears

Crystal Palace new boy Freddie Sears has been tipped for a bright future by West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola.

The 19-year-old striker returned early from holiday on Friday to complete his season-long loan move to Palace.

After scoring regularly for the Hammers' reserve and youth sides, Zola reckons regular football in hustle and bustle of the Championship will help Sears improve even more.

"I probably didn't give him as many opportunities as he probably needed but that is part of the game sometimes," said Zola. "I believe in him. He's got good talent and good qualities.

"In the last few weeks of the season I saw him improving. We are trying to add something to his game because, with the kind of body he has got, he needs to add something to his game.

"We have been talking about him and said we have seen him improving. In my view, he needs to go out and play consistently and get his game going again. Then, he will be an important player for us in the future."

Despite glowing praise from Zola, Eagles manager Neil Warnock insists Sears will have to fight for a place in his side each week.

Warnock said: "We really have chased Freddie for a long time now, so we are delighted to have him on board. But I've made the lad no assurances over the amount of games he will play next season."