June 20 2009

Freddie Sears

Crystal Palace have reached an agreement with West Ham United to take striker Freddie Sears on a season long loan.

The 19-year-old has been at Upton Park for the whole of his career, joining them at the age of 11.

He has made his name as a prolific striker at Under 18 and reserve team level football.

Sears made his debut for the Hammers in March 2008, coming off the bench to score the winner against Blackburn Rovers.

He made 22 appearances for West Ham last season in the Premier League, mainly coming on as a substitute.

Sears will go straight into the squad that will fly out to America in a few weeks' time to play two pre-season games against Crystal Palace USA and Harrisburg City Islanders.

See Sears score against Blackburn in March 2008.