Steve Parish has confirmed the first piece of Crystal Palace transfer business as Martin Kelly departs the club following eight years of service.
The centre-back joined Palace in 2014 and went on to make 148 appearances during his time in south London, finishing tenth in the Premier League in his first season and helping the club reach the 2016 FA Cup Final. The 32-year-old has played less in recent seasons, appearing just once under Patrick Vieira when he played 90 minutes against Hartlepool United in February.
"Martin has shown a unique level of dedication while serving Crystal Palace," said chairman Steve Parish. "From his earlier seasons with us that established the club in the Premier League to his role as a senior, leading member of the squad, he has given no less than his all to this club in whatever position he was asked to play.
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"We’ve had some big, important wins against some big teams with Martin in the team and he’s made a massive contribution to where we are today. He leaves with the very best wishes of everybody here."
Kelly himself said: "Although the last couple of seasons have been frustrating not playing as much as I'd like to, I've always tried to be professional and help the lads off the pitch as well as on the pitch, and to help the younger lads coming through. I've tried to find ways to make my worth in the squad whether I've played or not.
"I've always kept myself ready and as fit as possible for when the chances came, and I leave on a positive from the club because they gave me the chance over the past eight seasons to play for such a big side in London. They will be forever in the memories of me and my family, and we'll always be part of Palace."
He added on Instagram: "To the fans, owners and managers at Crystal Palace FC. Thank you from me and my family. Since joining in August 2014 you guys have welcomed us like family, the loyalty you have shown us over the years I've already tried to repay with leaving nothing out there on the pitch. I came into a dressing room full of big characters and our top priority was always to compete in the Premier League - we did that.
"I feel now with the current manager and group of players, you guys have the best chance of going even further the next few seasons. Special memories me and my family will enjoy forever."
Speaking after the Eagles' final game of the season against Manchester United on Sunday afternoon, Patrick Vieira said the club would need to be smart when replacing experienced players who were leaving this summer. He told football.london : "I think it's always important to have the right balance between young players and experience between how many players come in and how many are leaving. Those players give a lot to this football club and this is why this window will be massively important for us and the fewer mistakes we make, the better it will be."
