'This is what the players, fans and manager deserve' - Ward

Former Crystal Palace defender Joel Ward said achievements like making their first ever major European final is what the Eagles "deserve" after they beat Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1 at Selhurst Park.

Speaking on TNT Sports after the final whistle, he said: "I am beaming ear to ear.

"When the manager first came in, he challenged us in our minds and told us we can achieve special things.

"This group of players, and what they have achieved over the last year, this is what the players, fans and manager deserve."

Former Leeds striker Lucy Ward, also speaking on TNT Sports, added: "Crystal Palace were brilliant and managed both games so well. Bring on Leipzig!

"They have got players who will stand up in Europe and now have the experience. They know that when they play well as a group, they can beat anybody and they will be going in to the final thinking that."