August 19 2004

Ivan Kaviedes

Crystal Palace have finalised a move for Ecuadorian international striker Ivan Kaviedes.

The 26-year-old had a successful trial with the Eagles, and has joined from Ecudorian club Barcelona de Guayaquil, on a season-long loan.

Kaviedes scored a record 43 goals in one season for Emelec in 1998 and made his international debut in a 5-1 friendly defeat against Brazil in October of that year.

He had spells at Perugia in Italy, Spanish clubs Celta Vigo and Valladolid, and Puebla in Mexico, without ever establishing himself, before joining current club Barcelona de Guayaquil.

But despite his problems settling at a club level his international career has blossomed and he scored the goal that helped Ecuador qualify for the 2002 World Cup.

Dowie said "He is an icon in Ecuadorian football, he's an outstanding footballer. He's come on trial here and he's shown good motivation in training. He's been a breath of fresh air. He's an outstanding finisher and free-kick specialist."