Joel Ward says the Crystal Palace squad is eagerly awaiting Emmanuel Adebayor’s debut after a productive first week at Selhurst Park.

The Togo international, who was released by Tottenham in September, signed a six-month deal with the Eagles last week.

After manager Alan Pardew revealed the striker is “pencilled in” for Tuesday’s game against Bournemouth, Ward hopes the former Arsenal and Manchester City man can put in the same displays he’s already shown on the training ground.

“He’s started off well, training well, it’ll be good to see him when he’s firing on all cylinders,” the 26-year-old defender said.

“We’re looking forward to him making his debut.

“He’s settled in well, he’s been having a laugh with the lads.

“He’s been sharp, he’s been holding the ball up well and scored some great goals so far in training. Hopefully he can bring that onto the pitch.”

Ward, who has developed into one of Palace’s most dependable players, believes the South Londoners can build on Saturday’s FA Cup win against Stoke after a dip in form in the Premier League.

“We've been struggling to create at times over this period, but today we were able to. We’re just lacking a goal,” said Ward.

“We played well and we’ll only get stronger.

“We’ve had two tough draws but we’ve come through strong, I think we’re due a nice one and hopefully we can build on this.”

The Eagles sealed victory when Wilfried Zaha dribbled through the Stoke defence and calmly slotted past stopper Jakob Haugaard.

Zaha, 23, has been in menacing form this term and teammate Ward hailed his impact, while also highlighting Lee Chung-yong’s performance in a rare start.

“He [Zaha] asked them a lot of questions, that’s the quality he brings to the side,” Ward added.

“He’s going from strength to strength at the moment.

“Chung played really well today, held the ball up and created a lot.

“He was nice and tidy in the final third. It shows our depth of quality in the squad.”

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