June 30 2011

Alassane N'Diaye

Crystal Palace midfielder ALASSANE N'Diaye has joined Southend United on a season's loan.

The 21-year-old, who signed as a free agent two years ago, has fallen out of favour at Selhurst Park making just 13 appearances last season.

He had a loan stint at Swindon towards the end of the campaign and team mate Adam Barrett feels the Frenchman can make an impact at his former club.

"ALASSANE is a strong imposing lad who I think could do well for Southend if he signs," said Barrett. "I didn’t really see the best of him last season to be honest.

"I think he felt a little bit isolated when George Burley was in charge and he become quite frustrated playing as a holding midfielder, which didn’t really suit his game, before he fell out of favour.

"But the year before, under Paul Hart, I’ve been told he did really well. He scored a few important goals and if he gets his confidence back - which he should do by playing games - then I really do think he could do well for Southend because he's a young lad who is desperate to play on a more regular basis."