November 8 2000

Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace are hoping to extend Steve Staunton's loan deal for at least another four weeks. The Liverpool and Republic of Ireland defender still has two games left at the South London club.

Liverpool have told Staunton that he can leave on a free transfer so he can put himself in the shopping window by playing on loan at Selhurst Park.

Altough Palace are still losing £30,000 a week they believe that they can afford to sign him on a permanent basis.

Eagles boss Alan Smith is keen on keeping Staunton at the club as he brings a lot of qualities to the Selhurst Park dressing room.

The 31-year-old is likely to extend the loan deal with Palace despite being linked with his former club Aston Villa as he will have the chance to stay with first team football at the South London club.