March 2 2010

Dougie Freedman

Crystal Palace legend Dougie Freedman said he didn't need to think twice about making a return to the club.

Freedman quit Southend United to be re-united with Hart as his assistant after the pair worked together at Nottingham Forest.

And the opportunity for a third spell at Selhurst Park in the Eagles' hour of need was one Freedman could not turn down.

Palace sit outside the relegation places on goal difference after getting hit with a 10 point deduction and the Hart-Freedman partnership has 14 games to save Palace from the drop.

"I couldn't refuse to come back," said Freedman. "What was I going to say? No. I cannot say it. I have worked with Paul and know what he is all about so that was a no-brainer.

"Crystal Palace are in a desperate situation and on their knees, they need some help. They need someone who knows the familiarities of the club to get it kick started straight away on Saturday.

"I feel I can bring that to the table, I couldn't say no. I feel I truly can help the situation we find ourselves in.

"Strangely I know the two parties separately, I know this club and I know the players but I also know Paul from working with him previously so putting the two together it's a perfect situation. I can hopefully get the fans get the players tuned in as quick as possible.

"It is a huge challenge but a good opportunity. We have a very good squad, the players have done nothing wrong and the fans have done nothing wrong. The gaffer gave me a call last night and I jumped at the chance."

"I am more than confident that we can stay in this division. I know the area, players and fans and there is nothing wrong on the field. I am here to keep the club ticking along and keep the club in the Championship."