December 31 2002

Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace have signed out of contract goalkeeper CEDRIC BERTHELIN until the end of the season.

Nik Michopoulos' loan cannot be extended any further and he will return to Burnley.

Trevor Francis needed cover for Alex Kolinko and swooped for the Frenchman who has impressed while at Luton this season. Luton were unable to afford to buy the former Lens man.

Francis said: "I'm delighted to get CEDRIC. He's a very good keeper in his own right and will provide excellent cover for Kolinko."

BERTHELIN added: "I am looking forward to playing for Crystal Palace. I hope I can play a part in the club's push for promotion."