Former Premier League striker Marlon Harewood has given his backing to Crystal Palace forward Christian Benteke in an exclusive interview with Football FanCast.

Benteke has had some difficult spells during his time at Selhurst Park, enduring campaigns where finding the back of the net proved to be a huge challenge.

Last season, the 30-year-old only managed to score two goals in the Premier League as Palace went on to finish in 14th place. His numbers the season prior do not make for good reading either, with Benteke only managing to score once.

Despite his struggles, Harewood has hailed the Belgium international, stressing just how difficult it can be to lead the line. Speaking exclusively to FFC, the ex-West Ham and Aston Villa No.9 said:

"As a striker it's so hard really because you're there to score goals. And if you're not getting that, that's what you're judged on. Benteke is a very, very good player when he gets given the service, so it's just very hard for him as a striker."

Speaking on Benteke further, Harewood added: "I think he's a top-class player and hopefully he gets back to his [old] form."

It has been quite the decline since the 2016/17 Premier League campaign, where Benteke was excellent. He scored 15 goals that term as he reminded English football of his ability after enduring a hard time at Liverpool.

Benteke's £120,000-a-week contract expires in the summer, so it will be interesting to see what happens regarding his future at Selhurst Park, especially if manager Roy Hodgson, whose contract is also set to expire, ends up departing. The 73-year-old has constantly backed the former Villa striker during his time in south London.