October 28 2008

Craig Beattie

Craig Beattie has extended his loan at Crystal Palace until the end of the year.

The targetman initially arrived from West Bromwich Albion for a month's stay in September to ease Palace's injury crisis in attack.

Calvin Andrew, James Scowcroft and recent signing Alan Lee have all been sidelined, leaving boss Neil Warnock bereft of options up front.

Beattie has made a huge impression with his hold-up play and two goals in six appearances so Warnock was thrilled to see the former Celtic star sign on until December 28th.

Warnock said: "It is a great relief to sign Craig for a further couple of months and I must thank Tony Mowbray for agreeing to let us have him.

"Craig has been a very good addition for us since his arrival. Some said it was a risk taking him on knowing that he had only played a handful of reserve games, but he has gone on to prove an excellent signing.

"He has not only scored goals but has also shown that he can hold the ball up well and then link up with the rest of the team. I think he will get even better with the more games he plays for us and we are pleased that he can carry on his progression here at Crystal Palace."

Beattie added: "Yeah I am delighted. I said when I joined that I was not sure what was going to happen but that I wanted to come down for a month and show what I could do. So I am happy that the manager is pleased with the work I am doing.

"I have bagged a couple of goals as well and I am definitely looking to get a few more before my contract is up again."