August 2 2005

Andy Johnson

Andy Johnson has commited his future to Crystal Palace by signing a new contract.

The 24-year-old had been linked with moves away from Selhurst Park after scoring 21 goals last season, despite Palace getting relegated.

Johnson won his first England cap and feared his chances of playing for his country in next year's World Cup would be over if he was not with a Premiership club.

Tottenham placed a £5.5m bid for Johnson and Everton have recently reported to have shown an interest in the striker.

But after talks with chairman Simon Jordan and boss Iain Dowie, Johnson has agreed to sign a lucrative five-year deal.

"It's been a difficult couple of months but I'm committing my future to the club," said Johnson. "I want to fire Palace back into the Premiership."

Dowie added: "AJ is one of the best three or four strikers in the country. Him staying at Palace is a big thing for us all - he's a top lad. The chairman did the deal and we're grateful. AJ feels valued at this club."