Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew has cleared up the pre-FA Cup final rumours that Wilfried Zaha would not play.

The winger was photographed crying on Jason Puncheon’s shoulder just after finishing the warm up.

It sent Twitter into meltdown, spreading rumours that he was upset because he had picked up an injury and would not play in the final, which Palace went on to lose 2-1 to Manchester United in extra-time.

However, it was not the case – rather something closer to home.

Pardew said: “We put some personal messages in the dressing room from family members – and some got to him.

“There were lots of rumours flying around on Twitter that he was not playing – it was not the case.

“He just got emotional about a message. He has a big family and he got affected by that.”

He added: “Wilf was upset, not in a nasty way, in a nice way. But we got him level for the game, and he had some great moments.”

Pardew also poured light on his jig on the touchline after Jason Puncheon had fired Palace ahead with 10 minutes to go.

He said: “I enjoyed that moment – in a cup final and as a manager it is difficult to enjoy a moment, so forgive me for my dance, but I enjoyed it.”

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