June 1 2011

Anthony Gardner

Crystal Palace hope to tie up a deal to sign defender Anthony Gardner this week.

The centre half impressed while on loan from Hull City last season and is now a free agent after his contract expired.

Assistant manager Lennie Lawrence is dealing with the matter as boss Dougie Freedman is currently on holiday and he believes terms for a permanent move can be agreed.

"I've been speaking with his agent and Anthony is very keen to come back here," said Lawrence. "We want him back and we are hoping we can get it done in the next few days. I'm optimistic and I think we can do it.

"We've moved things along significantly - both myself and the manager Dougie Freedman are keen to retain him."