Palace linked with Derry swoop

PORTSMOUTH midfielder Shaun Derry is being linked with a move to Crystal Palace.

The 24-year-old seems almost certain to leave Fratton Park after being placed on the transfer list in the summer.

Eagles boss Trevor Francis has been attracted by the midfielder`s battling qualities and is reportedly attempting to thrash out a deal with Pompey counterpart Harry Redknapp.

Derry established himself as a regular at Pompey, and earned the captaincy under Graham Rix, but has grown disillusioned with the new regime and is looking to move on.

Derry could be joined at Selhurst Park by Dele Adebola, who is training with Palace with a view to a permanent move.

The striker, who left Birmingham in the summer and recently had a trial with Portsmouth, said: "I got on really well with Trevor Francis when he was my manager and it would be great if we could get together again.

"We will just have to wait to see what happens in the coming weeks."