Sam Allardyce delighted by Mauro Zarate debut for West Ham United

West Ham United boss Sam Allardyce has paid tribute to Mauro Zarate after the summer signing scored on his debut during Saturday's 3-1 win over Crystal Palace.

The forward opened the scoring for the Hammers at Selhurst Park as they earned their first Premier League victory of the season.

Despite it being Zarate's maiden appearance for West Ham, Allardyce believes that the Argentine gave a good account of himself against Palace.

"It was fantastic to see a debutant in Mauro come in and show what he could do with a very good goal to get us underway," he told the club's official website. "Zarate made his debut and scored and looked very good in tight areas with his ability."

West Ham return to action on Tuesday when they host Sheffield United in round two of the League Cup.