‘I don’t really want to go into details’ – Palace boss Vieira asked why Ayew started in place of Olise at Brentford

Olise had started the previous four games under the French World Cup winner and has scored four and assisted six since joining the Eagles in the summer from Reading.

Ayew made his first start for the South Londoners since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, where he was eliminated with Ghana in the group stages.

Ayew had Palace’s best chance of the first half when Odsonne Edouard played him through but, when one-on-one with David Raya, he placed his effort wide.

Olise replaced Ayew in the 78th minute.

When asked about his selection choices, Vieira said: “Do I really have to go into this decision as to why I chose this player over another one?

“I don’t really want to go into details. I make decisions.

“It has nothing to do with Michael’s performances in the games that he has played – he did quite really well.

“On the other hand, he started two games, and I just wanted to bring some fresh legs in because I knew how hard and difficult it would be and how hard the front players needed to work.

“With Jordan’s experience, it’s one of the reasons why I made that decision.”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD