February 14 2013

Jon Williams

Crystal Palace young gun Jon Williams is relishing the chance to work with old master Kevin Phillips.

The pair's second half introduction against Watford last week completely rejuvenated the Eagles as they came back from two down to draw 2-2.

Williams was presented with a man-of-the match bottle of champers by Phillips who scored and the 19-year-old Welsh star believes working with someone 20 years his senior will improve his game.

He said: "I’ve not opened the bottle so I’ve no idea what’s actually in it. I’ve not drunk it and I don’t intend to, I will treasure it for a long time because it was a special thing.

"It was a surreal moment being presented with it by Kevin, and I didn’t really think too much about it until I watched it back later with my family, it was all a bit of a blur at the time.

"It is unbelievable for me and Kevin, him still playing at 39 and me coming through at 19. There are not many players like Kevin who are still doing the business at 39.

"Even in training he is razor sharp, it is incredible to be playing with a player like Kevin. His movement is Premier League standard. There is no doubt about it. You can tell he has been at the top and it is great to have him at Palace.

"People say I turned the Watford game, and if that’s true, then it is nice to hear. Normally if you’re on the bench, you come on to make an impact and if I can continue to do that I’ll be happy."