Alan Pardew is expected to be confirmed as Crystal Palace's new manager in time for Sunday's FA Cup tie at Dover despite a delay in his appointment.

Pardew was set to be named as Neil Warnock's successor on Friday, but the details of the contract that will take him away from Newcastle are still being finalised.

But the former Palace midfielder spoke to staff on a visit to the Premier League club's Beckenham training ground on Friday and Eagles caretaker manager Keith Millen says official confirmation of his appointment is imminent.

"They're still talking, but there are no problems. The lawyers are finalising the contract. The paperwork is taking longer than expected," Millen said.

"Alan has held a staff meeting when he spoke about a number of things. He spoke to the players and then we had training.

"We're preparing for the game on Sunday and I'm sure Alan will be taking the game. He'll be taking training on Saturday. We're hopeful the deal will be done for Sunday."

Pardew, who watched Palace's 0-0 draw at Aston Villa on Thursday, is due to select the line-up to face Conference Premier side Dover in the FA Cup third round and Millen insists his return to the club has captured the players' imagination.

"We've spoken about the team for Sunday's game. He's gone through the squad. He's learning about the players, but he's pleased with what he's seen. He'll pick the team," Millen said.

"Alan is excited because it's Crystal Palace and the club means a lot to him, but it's also exciting because of the group of players he's inheriting.

"There's a buzz about the place. It's exciting times and from the conversations I've had with him we'll be looking to change a few things."