September 2 2008

Dougie Freedman

Crystal Palace duo Dougie Freedman and TOM SOARES have signed for Southend and Stoke respectively on transfer deadline day.

Palace legend Freedman was told he had no future at the club by manager Neil Warnock shortly after his testimonial in July.

The 34-year-old spent 10 seasons over two spells with the Eagles and scored 108 goals in 368 appearances.

He joins the Shrimpers on a free transfer, inking a two-year contract with the League One outfit.

SOARES was snapped up by Premier League newcomers Stoke City for £1.25million, which could rise to £2m, and signs a four-year deal.

The former Academy midfielder was placed on the transfer list by Warnock to raise funds for new purchases.

Stoke Chief Executive Tony Scholes said: "We are delighted to have captured a very talented young english player like TOM.

"Despite being just 22 years old he has amassed over 150 league appearances, and also has Premier League experience.

"He is a player the manager rates extremely highly and we believe he will prove to be an excellent signing for the club."

SOARES made his Palace debut in 2004, aged 17, and chalked up 162 appearances, scoring 11 goals.