Jordan Ayew: 'Patrick Vieira gives me so much confidence. I am happy to work with him'

Crystal Palace striker Jordan Ayew has caught up with Capital Football after the 2-1 win over Southampton last Saturday.

The Ghanaian discussed his relationship with manager Patrick Vieira, Crystal Palace's projects for the new season and what that victory at the St Mary's meant.

Hi Jordan, last Saturday you won at Southampton in the last minute. Is it sweeter to do it that way?

It’s better, it’s better. It was a while that we hadn’t won a game, so it was important to win. To do it in the last minute proves that we are on the right track for the remaining games. And we were all happy to take the three points at Southampton.

Four games without a win, was the pressure there? Everton and Burnley could still have caught you mathematically…while now that becomes much harder to do.

Yes, there is always this pressure of being dragged into a relegation fight and to win matches. And that’s what we were focused on, winning matches. The club has moved into a different direction this season and we’re on the right track.

How is your relationship with manager Patrick Vieira?

Very, very good! He’s an outstanding coach who has helped me a lot. This season I’ve played in a position that I am not really used to. Ever since he came in the first day, he told me he wanted to use me on the right and I can feel that I am progressing little by little. And I am happy.

Does he give you confidence?

Yes, he makes me feel confident on the pitch and there’s a good relationship between us. I am very, very happy to work here with him.

Crystal Palace have come a long way in terms of style this season. Can the club challenge for the upper part of the table next year?

It’s not a question of playing for the upper part of the table. We try to progress game after game and get as high up the table as we can. All while giving the best we have.