December 6 2000

Crystal Palace

Steve Staunton has signed a deal with Aston Villa last night. He joins his former team on a free transfer from Liverpool. Crystal Palace were also interested in the defender but Staunton prefered a return to the Birmingham Premier club.

Crystal Palace manager Alan Smith was keen on signing the Republic of Ireland defender after an impressive loan spell last month which saw Ataunton score a magnificent goal from the half way line.

Staunton is now, however, set to rejoin his former club Aston Villa after being granted a free transfer by his current club Liverpool.

Alan Smith will have to continue his search to strengthen his defence.

Meanwhile, former Palace star Sun Jihai might be a Magpie very soon if Newcastle are ready to pay £700,000 for the Chinese defender.

Palace are also in the market for his signature but it is understood that Jihai would prefer playing at a Premiership club.

Newcastle boss Bobby Robson is keen on signing a defender and Jihai apparently impressed on a 10-day trial last month.