Jordan's best yet to come - Lamptey

Former Aston Villa attacker Nii Odartey Lamptey believes compatriot Jordan Ayew could blossom into a better player in the 'right' environment.

The Ghana international has earned rave reviews for his fine performances for Crystal Palace in the Premier League this term, having so far hit eight goals in 28 matches.

It is Jordan's second-highest career league goals tally and his best since netting 12 times for French side Lorient in 2014-15.

“I know what Jordan can do," Lamptey, who played for Villa in 1994-95, told Starr FM.

"If he gets the opportunity to join any of the top-notch teams in the English Premier League, I bet you the whole world will see the quality he is made of.

“I know him when he was very young and even at that age when he plays, you could see the greatness in him.

“It’s just a matter of time because the best is even yet to come from him."

His goal contribution is seven higher than what he achieved in the English top-flight last season.

Palace is Jordan's third English club, having also featured for Swansea City and Aston Villa.

He joined Palace from Swansea on a permanent deal last summer following an initial loan stint.

In his first year with The Eagles, he scored only once in the Premier League.

His fine form this season earned him a spot on the provisional list for the 2018 African Footballer of the Year award.

"I’m really, really honoured. I’m proud. It shows the hard work has paid off because last year, last season, wasn’t a good year at all," Ayew, who was linked to Liverpool in 2018, told Palace TV in November.

"I had a good Afcon [Africa Cup of Nations], continued with Crystal Palace and things are going positively.

"Hopefully it stays that way. I’m happy for myself, for my family and I’m happy for the people who always believed in me.

"It’s just the shortlist but it’s a sign I’m improving. I need to keep on working hard to keep on moving forward."

The Ghana international also played for Olympique Marseille and Sochaux during his time in France.