Alan Pardew on Saturday was confirmed as Crystal Palace's new manager after being released from his contract at Newcastle

A statement on Palace's official website read: "Crystal Palace Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Alan Pardew as the club's new manager after signing a three-and-a-half-year contract."

Pardew spent four years in charge of Newcastle United but he was never a favourite with many of the Tyneside club's fans and eventually jumped at the chance of returning to Palace where he spent four years as a player.

The 53-year-old replaces Neil Warnock, who was sacked last Saturday four months into his second spell in charge with Palace third from bottom of the English Premier League and facing a battle against relegation.

"I am absolutely delighted to be the new manager of Crystal Palace," the 53-year-old Pardew said.

"Everyone knows my history here, what's important now is to move the club to the next level.

"I believe with the backing of Steve (Parish) and the board I can help achieve that and create some new exciting history for the club."

Parish said: "We wanted a manager with a great track record and proven experience in the Barclays Premier League.

"In Alan we have both these things as well as a man who has great affection for this club and shares my determination to take us to the next level."

Newcastle were the first to announce Pardew's departure in a statement which read: "Newcastle United can confirm that Alan Pardew has been released from his contract in order to be installed as the new manager of Crystal Palace."