September 14 2000

Crystal Palace

West Ham's Paul Kitson has signed a one month loan deal with Crystal Palace. Palace boss Alan Smith took advice from skipper Neil Ruddock who is a former team mate of Kitson and decided to sign him.

Kitson was watched for the last time by Palace representatives during a West Ham reserves game against Southampton before de deal went ahead this morning.

The former Newcastle player had a hard time getting a regular place at West Ham with the likes of Frederik Kanuote, Davor Suker and Paulo Di Canio all battling for a spot up front.

Smith is hoping to boost his squads fire power by signing the 29-year old striker. He is set to make his debut against Norwich City on Saturday