Boyce keen to seal deal

Emmerson Boyce is keen to resolve the drawn-out negotiations over his new contract with Crystal Palace.

The right back has a clause that stipulates an extension would be granted if Boyce made more than ten appearances this season.

The ex-Luton Town man has been a somewhat unexpected stalwart of the Palace squad, making 23 appearances to date, although the extension has not been implemented.

Manager Iain Dowie has recently admitted that talks should be completed soon, and Boyce will be delighted to commit his future to The Eagles.

"I have been waiting for quite a long time now," Boyce told the Croydon Guardian.

"We have been trying to sort out the contract since October but I will be happy when it's all finished. It has been dragging on for quite a bit.

"As long as everything goes smoothly, and everything fits what I want and is good both ways, then hopefully it will get signed as soon as possible."

The 25-year-old admitted that the delay over his new contract distracted him somewhat, as he wanted to be granted the deal until 2007 that was entitled to him.

"Obviously you want to get secure and you want to get what you deserve," Boyce continued.

"You are playing and you think if you're due to get a contract then you want it sorted out as quick as possible.

"Obviously it doesn't always happen like that but sometimes it's frustrating."