July 24 2003

Neil Shipperley

Palace have completed the signing of NEIL SHIPPERLEY for an undisclosed fee.

Palace officials have been busy negotiating a deal with Wimbledon's administrators over the past few days.

SHIPPERLEY, who returns for a second spell at the club, joined the Palace squad on their pre-season training break in Spain, and scored in the 3-0 victory over Torremolinos.

He wore the number 11 shirt last night in the match against Whyteleafe FC, and helped setup two of the 6 goals.

The 28 year old, who has signed a three-year contract, scored 36 goals in 95 appearances for Wimbledon, where he forged a formidable striking partnership with David Connolly.

SHIPPERLEY's old Wimbledon team mate Michael Hughes is likely to follow in his footsteps and sign a contract with the Eagles, after impressing Steve Kember during his trial at the club.