March 12 2003

Craig Harrison

Eagles defender Craig Harrison has been forced to retire from football after failing to recover from a broken leg sustained last year.

The 25-year-old got a double compound fracture on his left leg during a reserve game against Reading in January 2002 and was ruled out for the rest of the season.

Trevor Francis said: "Sadly for Craig, it's terrible news. He had to inform the chairman and myself that his long fight to regain fitness has not succeded and he has decided to retire from the game.

"This really does put things into perspective when a player of his age has to come to this decision and I am sure I echo the sentiments of all Crystal Palce supporters in wishing Craig the very best in the future following this sad end to his career."

The Mullet was signed by Alan Smith at the beginning of the 2001/01 season from Middlesborough after a three-week loan spell.