Pardew Takes Over as Crystal Palace Manager

Alan Pardew on Saturday was confirmed as Crystal Palace's new manager after being released from his contract at Newcastle United.

A statement on Palace's official website read: "Crystal Palace Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Alan Pardew as the club's new manager after signing a three-and-a-half-year contract."

Pardew spent four years in charge of Newcastle, but he was never a favourite with many of the Tyneside club's fans and eventually jumped at the chance of returning to Palace, where he spent four years as a player.

The 53-year-old replaces Neil Warnock, who was sacked last Saturday, four months into his second spell in charge, with Palace third from bottom of the English Premier League and facing a battle against relegation.

Pardew, then a blond-haired midfield player, played for Palace between 1987 and 1991, notably scoring the winning goal in a 4-3 victory over Liverpool in the 1990 FA Cup semi-finals.

"I am absolutely delighted to be the new manager of Crystal Palace," said Pardew, who becomes Palace's fourth permanent manager in less than 18 months.

"Everyone knows my history here. What's important now is to move the club to the next level.

"I believe with the backing of Steve (Parish) and the board I can help achieve that and create some new exciting history for the club."

Palace chairman Parish said: "We wanted a manager with a great track record and proven experience in the Barclays Premier League.

"In Alan we have both these things as well as a man who has great affection for this club and shares my determination to take us to the next level."

Warnock, 66, returned to Palace following Tony Pulis's departure on the eve of the campaign, but was sacked after only six months.

Pulis was named the Premier League's Manager of the Year for steering Palace clear of relegation last season, but left in August after falling out with the club's hierarchy over transfer policy.

He was appointed manager of West Bromwich Albion earlier this week.

Newcastle, currently 10th in the Premier League table, were the first to announce Pardew's departure in a statement that read: "Newcastle United can confirm that Alan Pardew has been released from his contract in order to be installed as the new manager of Crystal Palace."

Assistant coach John Carver and first-team coach Steve Stone were due to take charge of Newcastle for their FA Cup third-round game at Leicester City later on Saturday.

Newcastle added: "The search for a head coach has begun and an announcement will follow in due course."

Reflecting on his time at St James' Park, during which Newcastle finished 12th, fifth, 16th and 10th in the Premier League, Pardew said: "It's been a privilege to manage Newcastle United.

"I want to thank my captain, Fabricio Coloccini, and all the players, John Carver, Steve Stone, (goalkeeping coach) Andy Woodman and all the staff, all of whom have been outstanding servants to Newcastle United.

"A special thanks also goes to the fans for all their support over the last four years. I must also thank (owner) Mike Ashley and the board for their unwavering support during my tenure at the club."