July 11 2017

Steve Mandanda

Steve Mandanda has left Crystal Palace to re-sign for his old club Marseille for an undisclosed fee.

The goalkeeper only joined from the French side on a free transfer last summer and big things were expected from him having twice won Ligue 1's Keeper of the Year.

Mandanda started the 2016/17 Eagles campaign but failed to keep a clean sheet in the league as Alan Pardew's outfit showed their defensive frailties and struggled to pick up points.

The France No.2 stopper then sustained a knee injury in November and was unable to displace Wayne Hennessey in the sticks when he recovered.

There was newspaper speculation that the 32-year-old's fitness levels were not good enough and that he also missed Marseille where he had been for nine years.

After making 10 appearances and conceding 17 goals, reports suggest that Palace agreed a fee of around £5m for the stopper to return to his native country.

Yohan Cabaye posted this (translated) message on his Instagram: "I congratulate you for your return! As I told you, I am very happy for you and sincerely wish you to shine again! You will miss me my friend, take care. #friends"

Meanwhile, Palace have announced they will head to France and play FC Metz for a pre-season friendly on Saturday, July 29.