Eberechi Eze’s FA Cup final screamer didn’t just clinch Crystal Palace’s first ever trophy; it mocked every academy that rejected him. Born in gritty Greenwich to Nigerian parents, he battled a tough childhood. His 1-0 triumph over Manchester City screamed determination and resilience.

England team-mates Ivan Toney and Trevoh Chalobah – who was recalled from his season-long loan spell at Selhurst Park by Chelsea in January – both responded to commend Eze’s display at Wembley. Toney simply said; “smoothie” to Eze, while Chalobah added: “Thou shall not pass”.

The England international produced the decisive moment of finishing class in their 1-0 win over Manchester City at Wembley on Saturday.

Eberechi Eze was on Arsenal's books before they released him at the age of 13, and now the Crystal Palace star is out to prove them wrong on the biggest stage in English football

Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze has emerged as a top target for Tottenham Hotspur ahead of the summer transfer window.

As Crystal Palace prepare to face Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday, Eberechi Eze tells BBC Sport about the pain of rejection before making it big.