ALAN Pardew says he and Crystal Palace are looking to "kickstart" Wilfried Zaha's career following his permanent move back to Selhurst Park.
The winger completed his move on transfer deadline day for a reported cut-price £3m deal and will be in Saturday's squad to face Leicester City.
Pardew also felt it was right for all parties and that the Eagles fans relate to him as one of their own having come through the Academy.
"I have spoken to Wilfried and the important thing is to have a hopefully have a player you can enhance and bring value to the football club, not for somebody else," said the boss.
"I thought it was an important deal we made and secure his future here. We have to kickstart his career somewhat.
"I think he's got fabulous technical ability and now he needs to bring that on a consistent basis to the first team.
"I felt it makes sense that he's here and he's our player. I have taken that opportunity and I think it's good for him, but certainly good for Crystal Palace as the fans really like him."
It turned out to be successful transfer window for the club, with Pardew managing to land a left-back in the shape of Pape Souare and an attacking midfielder in Jordon Mutch, alongside Shola Ameobi and also Yaya Sanogo on a loan deal.
"We felt we did some good business, we did most of it a bit earlier which is the best way if you can," added Pardew.
"We are very pleased with the incomings, we have a big and powerful squad to go forward for the next period.
"I thought there were areas we needed a bit more experience and a bit more quality.
"Pape Souare has arrived and he has a good track record in France. He's a player I know well from scouting Mathieu Debuchy and Yohan Cabaye out of Lille.
"Jordan Mutch has already played but there are few more to make their debuts, and hopefully sooner rather than later."
By Mark Ritson (Twitter @MR_LWMedia)
