January 31 2013

Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace have swooped for Blackpool striker Kevin Phillips in a loan deal.

The 39-year-old signs until the end of the season and will be reunited with Ian Holloway who was his manager while at Bloomfield Road.

Hitchin-born Phillips has failed to hold down a regular place this season, scoring two goals in 19 appearances.

But he netted 17 goals last term and Holloway will hope his experience will benefit his Palace side.

Phillips said: "Blackpool were approached three or four weeks ago about a club taking me on loan and the club let me know I was available to go.

"I spoke to my agent and then I had a conversation with Ian Holloway and then in the last 24 hours it's picked up again and he's someone I know well.

"We obviously got on really well at Blackpool. He brought me in at a time when not too many people were looking for someone for my age.

"I repaid him with 17 goals and helping them to the play-offs so it was a gamble that paid off. I think I can still do a job, he knows that and that's one of the reasons he's brought me to the football club."

Blackpool confirmed the deal on Twitter, saying: "Kevin Phillips has agreed a loan move to Crystal Palace until the end of the season."

Keep up with the ins and outs at Selhurst Park with our transfers page.