August 14 2003

Michael Hughes

Crystal Palace have finally completed the signing of former Wimbledon midfielder Michael Hughes.

Hughes, 32, played a large part in Palace's pre-season friendlies whilst on trial at the club, and the former Northern Irish international has now put pen to paper on a one year deal.

He told the official Palace website: "I'm delighted it's been sorted out. It took a week longer than I hoped but I'm just happy it's gone through. I'm looking forward to getting going now."

Hughes also revealed how our new physio Steve Allen was instrumental in his switch to Palace. "Steve used to be the physio at Wimbledon and when he joined Palace he recommended me to Steve Kember," he said.. "He came and took a look at me and it just went from there."

With his mind set on promotion to the Premiership, he added: "There's a very good squad here and I really believe this club has a chance of achieving something. I want to be a part of it."

Hughes impressed Palace fans during pre-season with his tough tackling and long-range passing abilities. He should provide good competition with the other midfielders at the club.