Crystal Palace star's brother in robbery charge (From Your Local Guardian)

Crystal Palace star's brother in robbery charge

10:49am Wednesday 15th February 2012 in Croydon By Nick Hitchens

The older brother of Crystal Palace football star Wilfried Zaha has appeared in court charged with robbing a disabled man.

Serge Zaha, 29, Dunheved Road South, Thornton Heath is charged with one count of robbery in an incident which saw him hospitalised for nine weeks and wheelchair bound.

Mr Zaha spoke only to confirm his name when he appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court on Friday February 10.

It is alleged Mr Zaha, who is originally from Ivory Coast, waved down a car specially adapted to be driven by the disabled, on Bulganak Road, Thornton Heath, jumped into the car and stole the driver’s bag on November 18 last year.

The driver and Mr Zaha, who is unemployed, fought before Mr Zaha escaped with the rucksack, it is claimed.

While leaving the car it is alleged Mr Zaha fell and the driver reversed, hitting him and causing major spinal injuries which could leave Mr Zaha permanently paralysed.

Mr Zaha was not discharged from Croydon University Hospital until January 23 this year.

His solicitor said CCTV footage of the incident contradicted the account of the driver, and Zaha denies the allegation.

He was granted bail, under the condition he remain at home between 9pm and 7am each night, and is due to reappear at Southwark Crown Court on April 20.

Eagles player Wilfried Zaha was the subject of media scrutiny during the January football transfer with rumours about a move to the Premier League.

The teenager has scored five goals this season and has been rated at close to £10m.

His agent and Crystal Palace football club have refused to comment on his brother's court appearance.