Crystal Palace have signed Malcolm Ebiowei on a free transfer from Derby County.
Ebiowei began his career initially as part of Chelsea’s Youth Academy and went on to play for Arsenal and Rangers at Academy level between 2015-21.
He then joined Derby last season where he scored once in 15 appearances as the Rams were relegated from the Championship to League One, with his only goal coming in a 2-0 away win at Blackpool in late April after having made his senior debut two months earlier as a substitute against Hull.
Derby’s immediate ongoing financial issues in administration however has resulted in Ebiowei deciding to move on and join Palace.
The 18 year-old however issued the following statement to Derby supporters in which he said: “I’d like to thank everyone at Derby County for their incredible support over the last year or so, and for giving me the opportunity to show what I can do on the field, and I’d also like to thank the fans for their encouragement especially given the circumstances of last season.
“As everyone is aware the situation is very uncertain at Derby, so it was important for me to secure my long-term future.”
Ebiowei also added that he is “… incredibly excited about the prospect of joining Palace, as they have an incredible squad and huge potential. I very much hope to contribute positively to the team this season.”
Palace Chairman, Steve Parish meanwhile is “delighted” to secure Ebiowei and believes that Selhurst Park will be “… the best place to continue his development, following his impressive breakthrough into senior football in recent months.”
“He is a highly coveted young player, and we very much expect to provide a platform for him to flourish at the highest level.”
Derby who are now under interim management of Liam Rosenior following Wayne Rooney’s departure as manager meanwhile issued the following statement on Ebiowei’s exit: “Derby County would like to place on record its thanks to Malcolm for his efforts and wish him every success in the future.”
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