Wilfried Zaha buys his first football club and aims to lead team up the football pyramid

Wilfried Zaha has purchased his first football club and aims to lead the team up the pyramid.

The Crystal Palace star has snapped up Ivory Coast side Espoir Club D’Abengourou.

Image: Alamy

Zaha, an Ivory Coast international, was born in the African country before moving with his family to London, aged four.

He's bought the Ivorian outfit alongside his brother, Carin, who oversees the running of his foundation, which is dedicated to improving lives.

Espoir Club D'Abengourou play in the fourth tier of Ivorian football as they harbour ambitions of climbing up the ranks.

"We have a U19 academy. We will play in the Division d’Honneur this season," Carin said.

"The objective is obviously to go up, but first we want our youngsters to be in good shape and gain experience."

Image: Alamy

Zaha, who has earned 29 international caps, is currently away with the national team.

He played in his side's 2-1 victory over Togo on Saturday, with the 'Elephants' back in action next Tuesday when they face Guinea.

The former Manchester United player has joined Ivory Coast for the international break, having scored four goals in five Premier League matches this season.

Despite his goals, Palace find themselves hovering above the relegation zone in 16th place - with six points on the board.