November 8 2001

Stephen Evans

Crystal Palace wingback Stephen Evans has joined third division Swansea City for a one-month loan spell.

Assistant manager Peter Nicholas, who knows Evans well from when he was a coach at Palace, recommended him to Swansea boss Colin Addison.

Evans has come back from a long-term injury last season and Palace have made it clear that they want their second string players to get competitve games playing regular first team football.

Evans told the official site: "It's going to be a good experience for me. I know a few faces here, from the under-21's so I'm not a complete stranger!

"It's good to be back in Wales, as I haven't been here for some time, and I'm looking forward to getting regular first team football."

"I had made a few appearances, and was a regular in the squad, but I had to give up all last season. I'm back to full fitness, but I need to get a few games under my belt.

"Torquay came in for me last week, but I turned them down. However, I get on really well with Peter Nicholas, so it's good to work with him again."

Nicholas was pleased with the loan deal. He said: "He's a good solid player, who will do a good job for us.

"With Michael Howard, Lee Jenkins and Lee De-Vulgt all injured, we needed cover in the wing-back position, and I know that we are bringing someone in who won't let us down.

"He likes to get forward and take people on, so I'm sure that the fans will warm to him."