Ian Holloway critical of Arsene Wenger over Wilfried Zaha comments

Crystal Palace manager Ian Holloway has criticised Arsene Wenger for acknowledging an interest in Wilfried Zaha during a recent press conference.

When asked whether he would be interested in recruiting the England winger, Wenger replied: "We are looking at every player who could strengthen our squad - but he is not more on the list than anyone else."

However, Holloway was left disappointed by Wenger's words and believes that his Arsenal counterpart should have declined to comment.

"Why is he talking about my players? I don't think that's right and proper, with the greatest respect," Holloway told the Daily Mail.

"I don't think anybody who manages any other club should actually admit who he likes and what he should be doing. I think that's totally bad etiquette. He can say what he likes but about his players, not mine."

Holloway went on to warn potential suitors that it will be very difficult to prise Zaha away from Selhurst Park this winter.

"I have told Wilf what I would do if I was him, and we have got such a strong contract they can go and whistle to be honest," he added. "At the end of the day I just want the best for the boy and I can guarantee he will get that. I know where I want him to go if he doesn't play for us in the Premier League next year, and I have already told him.

"But at the minute he probably will not be available no matter what the price is in January."

The likes of Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool have all been credited with an interest in Zaha over recent weeks.