July 13 2005

Danny Granville

Director of football Bob Dowie has praised Danny Granville for turning down big money offers elsewhere in favour of committing his future to the Eagles, by Stuart Pink.

The 30-year-old left back penned a new two-year contract last week after mulling over offers from other clubs as well as an offer of a contract extension from the Eagles.

Bob Dowie told the Croydon Guardian: "Danny received offers from two other clubs offering him a longer duration than us. Danny showed great loyalty to stay with Palace for football reasons rather than money.

"He made a football decision rather than a money decision which is very refreshing. We are absolutely delighted to have him here for two more years."

Granville was nearly an ever present during last season campaign, missing just two Premiership games in a season where he finished the Eagles third top goal scorer with three goals.

The ex-Manchester City defender was linked with move to Ipswich Town last month after his former manager Joe Royle expressed an interest, but Granville decided to stay with the Eagles and help the club make an instant return to the top flight.

Fellow out of contract Eagle Dougie Freedman has also signed a new two-year deal. The Scotsman put pen to paper on a new deal on Monday and is looking forward to an another promotion push.

Freedman said: "I'm delighted to have signed my new contract. I wanted to be at a club that will be near the top of the table and I believe that is the case of Palace.

"My love for the club was another factor in my decision. I've been here for over seven years now and it would have been sad to leave."

The 31-year-old will be looking to finally notch his 100th goal for Palace in the coming campaign, as he only needs five more goals to reach the illusive target.