Crystal Palace manager Tony Pulis says securing Tom Ince on a long-term deal will become one of his first jobs if Premier League safety is sealed.
Since joining the Eagles on loan from Blackpool in January, Pulis has been impressed with the England Under-21 forward, tipping him to become a “top Premier League player” – despite him only featuring five times.
The form of Yannick Bolasie, Jason Puncheon and Marouane Chamakh has denied the 22-year-old more first-team opportunities at Selhurst Park – but Pulis said a contract offer will become a high priority if his men secure their top-flight status.
Tony Pulis
"He's one that we'll look at once things are done," said Pulis at his pre-match press conference ahead of his side’s visit to Everton on Wednesday.
"I'd love to sit down and get something done with him, because I think he's a top player.
"Tom has been absolutely fantastic and he will be a top Premier League player, without a shadow of a doubt. He's got all the attributes and everything else."
"The unfortunate thing is that in the position Tom plays, Puncheon has been outstanding and Bolasie's been outstanding.
"So it's been very, very difficult to get him into those positions, and the one who's played behind has been Chamakh, who has been one of the players of the season."
Ince has been an England Under-21 regular this season
The former Stoke City manager is sympathetic to Ince’s position, but believes that his experience at the club this season will only improve him as a player.
"It's been difficult for Tom, but I have to say as a young lad who did everything at Blackpool, plays for the Under-21s, he's not been any trouble whatsoever," added Pulis.
"His attitude in training has been fantastic, and the players have taken to him as well.
"I think that's great credit to Tom. I think it's a part of his career that he will look back on and take a lot of stuff from.
"It's not gone to plan in respect of him playing every game but his attitude - he's a credit to his parents and he's been fabulous."
