April 15 2009

Michael Abnett

Crystal Palace academy star Michael Abnett has been handed a professional contract.

Abnett, who is comfortable at right-back and on the right wing, has sparkled for the Eagles reserve team this season.

Palace's youth team coach Gary Issott said: "Michael has had a really good year. Nathaniel Clyne did have the right-back slot in the reserves and it had stifled Michael a little bit.

"But he's got his chance and is well worth a contract."

Meanwhile, fellow youngsters Graham Edwards and Hakeem Adelakun have not been offered professional contracts.

JAMIE SMITH and James Dayton have already been told to find new clubs next season as their contracts expire in the summer.