Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew has insisted that Mile Jedinak still has a future at Selhurst Park.
The Australian midfielder has fallen down the pecking order following Yohan Cabaye's arrival in the summer, and he was reported to be close to joining Stoke City before the end of the transfer window.
A move could not be completed prior to the deadline, but Pardew claims that he is confident Jedinak will prove his worth to the club once again.
"Mile is a massive character and player for this football club," the Eagles boss told reporters. "There was a bid accepted by the board here out of respect really.
"He's a first-team player who's not playing so I think it's only fair to him that we're honest when bids come in to give him the option.
"We gave him the option, but he's here now to fight for his place. The decision was made by Mile to stay and we're happy with that."
Palace will host Manchester City on Saturday afternoon.
Callum Mulvihill
