By Paul Holmes
August 9 2002

Crystal Palace have completed the signing of Brentford defender Darren Powell for a fee of £400,000. Powell will now make his debut in tomorrows game against Preston on Saturday. The 26-year-old is likely to join Danny Butterfield, Andy Johnson and Shaun Derry in all making their debuts.

Palace boss Trevor Francis spoke of his delight at finalising the deal to the clubs website. "We have been working hard to complete this transfer over the last few days.

"I am very pleased to have someone of Darren's quality coming into the club ready for the first match of the season."