June 26 2001

Jamie Smith

As expected, Jamie Smith has signed a new deal with Crystal Palace.

The defender has signed a contract keeping him at Selhurst Park until the summer of 2004.

Smith joined a host of Palace players who pledged their futures to the club including Simon Rodger, Dean Austin and Gregg Berhalter.

The delighted defender said: "I have spoken to Steve Bruce and he is very positive. I think next season could be a very good one for Palace, that last minute goal from Dougie could be the springboard for us to go onto bigger and better things."

Meanwhile, Crystal Palace have appointed Derek Broadley as new Academy Director.

The former education welfare officer, who takes over from John Cartwright, is looking forward to his new challenge.

Broadley said: "I am very pleased to accept the position as Academy Director. I hope to build on all the good work of the first three years.

"Over the coming months, I hope the Academy can progress to where it is supposed to be, amongst one of the best in London football."

"We are looking to find the best players in and around the Croydon area. The biggest draw will be the new training ground, as soon as you walk through the gates you can see it is a great facility.

"We hope to be based there full-time and anyone coming to Crystal Palace will benefit from what it has to offer."