Crystal Palace were handed a harsh defeat at home to Everton yesterday in what was a dramatic game, and there were a number of standout performers.

Eberechi Eze was sensational on his first start since returning from injury, but there was another player who really caught the eye throughout the game.

With Cheick Doucoure surprisingly benched, Jefferson Lerma started alongside Will Hughes in midfield, and the Colombian delivered a masterclass.

Jefferson Lerma's excellent performance The 29-year-old was a machine in the middle for Crystal Palace, helping drive Roy Hodgson's side forward whilst also engaging in physical battles with the Everton midfield.

Defensively, Lerma was sensational, winning eight ground duels and all five of his attempted aerial duels, winning the battle against the likes of Amadou Onana. He also made 13 recoveries and five interceptions, covering a lot of ground on the pitch as per FotMOB.

Going forward, he registered a brilliant headed assist for Odsonne Edouard's equaliser in the second half, and created four chances throughout the game.

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He has started in all of his appearances this season, having missed four games through injury, and has been a strong presence in the middle, slotting in seamlessly and bringing a wealth of experience.

Once Doucoure, Michael Olise and Eze are back fit and firing alongside Lerma, Palace may find both their results and performances will begin to improve.

It's been a fairly good start to the season in terms of results, particularly given the injuries Palace have suffered, but once the best players start to play with each other, Hodgson will be able to field a well-balanced side, with the attacking quality of Eze and Olise being complimented by the physicality of Lerma and Doucoure.