Connor Wickham says he has taken inspiration from Crystal Palace defender Pape Souare’s miraculous recovery.

Souare was involved in a serious car crash last September, which ruled him out of the 2017/18 season.

But he has returned to the Palace team this term, with his two appearances coming in the Carabao Cup.

Eagles striker Wickham, who is still recovering from a cruciate knee ligament injury suffered last November, praised Souare’s work ethic.

“When I saw the state of his [Souare’s] car after the road accident I honestly didn’t think he would play football again.

“But watching every single day of his rehab and he worked so hard which was a real inspiration during the difficult times for me.

“In those situations, you work with each other and push each other on as you both work on your own individual recovery programmes.

“Having him in the gym every day during my rehab was great because it is an example to see how well he is progressing and fair play to him.

“Having watched him closer than other players had the chance to do, I have to say he has done ever so well to get back playing and good luck to him.”