August 9 2018

Jordan Ayew (photo: Andre Ayew)

Crystal Palace have confirmed the signing of Swansea City striker Jordan Ayew on a season's loan.

The 26-year-old, who scored 11 goals for the Swans last season, will add extra firepower to manager Roy Hodgson's front line.

Media reports suggested Palace wanted to sign Ayew permanently in deal which would see Jairo Riedewald going the other way, but the Palace midfielder didn't want to drop down to the Championship.

The Ghana forward had refused to train with the relegated Swans as he negotiated a transfer back to the Premier League and he admits that he needs time to regain match fitness.

"I am very pleased to be here," he told the Palace website. "It’s been a long transfer window but finally I got a move. The important thing for me now is to get fit and to be in good shape, and I know the manager wants to use me up front and make things happen.

"The manager, chairman and sporting director all made an effort for me to be here today, so I have to thank them. I am looking forward to playing with the boys and meet the fans, and hopefully it’ll be a good season.

"I chose to come to Palace to continue improving. It’s a step up for me and I’m ready for the challenge and to get to where I think I can get to."

The Marseille-born player started his career with his hometown club and helped them to a French league title in 2010 and five domestic cups before joining Lorient via a short loan stint with Sochaux.

Aston Villa snapped him up in July 2015 and he scored seven goals as the Villans were relegated from the Premier League that season.

Ayew moved to Swansea in January 2017 where he later reunited with older brother Andre, but 18 months later he suffered another relegation with Swansea, despite being named player of the year.