Jason Puncheon signs new deal at Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew has heaped praise on Jason Puncheon after he handed the midfielder a new long-term deal at the club.

Puncheon, who joined Palace in January 2014 after impressing during a loan spell, has made 37 appearances for the Eagles this season, and Pardew is delighted that the 28-year-old has committed his future to the club.

The 53-year-old told reporters: "Since I've come in, Jason Puncheon has been the best player.

"I've given him more responsibility and he has orchestrated our play. He's been very influential and he's very important to us."

Puncheon is expected to feature when Palace travel to Anfield to play Liverpool on Saturday evening.