Palace chief: Gardner exit could be a blessing

Sunday, 24 June 2012

By Richard Cawley

PALACE chairman Steve Parish reckons that Anthony Gardner's decision not to stay at Selhurst Park could be good news in the long term.

The former Tottenham centre-back, who had been due to become a free agent at the end of June, has penned a two-year deal with Sheffield Wednesday instead of accepting fresh terms from the Eagles.

Parish said: "Anthony was fabulous for us - but it could be a blessing in disguise. We need to make long-term plans and if he had stayed it would have meant putting that off for another year or two.

"We're pleased to get Aaron Martin in on loan from Southampton and if we can get a bit of cover then we're quite comfortable in that position.

"Anthony gave us great service but is at an age where he is looking to do the best for himself and his family.

"I'm not going to lie and say we didn't want him to stay - but this gives us a chance to focus on younger players."

0 comments on this sport item