Crystal Palace's new signing Jerome Thomas says the presence of Ian Holloway was the reason behind his free transfer move from West Bromich Albion.

Thomas was also lured to south-east London from the Midlands by Holloway's promise that he will have the freedom to play an attacking style of football.

Eagles boss Holloway had been tracking the former Charlton Athletic winger, and the 30-year-old officially put pen to paper on a two-year-deal yesterday.

It brings Holloway’s new summer transfer dealings to two, after Dwight Gayle signed from Peterborough last week.

Thomas told cpfc.co.uk said: “Ollie's the main factor, but obviously there's a lot of talent here and him and the chairman are planning on bringing in more.

“It shows what their goals are and I'm definitely looking forward to it.”

He added: “I wanted to stay at the top level. I saw them throughout the season and watched the play-offs.

“I hope I can bring a lot to the team. I’ve got experience of the Premier League and the gaffer’s going to give me the freedom to play how I want to play - my attacking game - which I haven’t been able to do for the last couple of seasons. That’s what I’m looking forward to.”

Thomas made 106 appearances for the Baggies, scoring 13 goals, but he has also turned out for Leeds United, Portsmouth, the Addicks, QPR and Arsenal in a pro career that began in 2001.

Going in the other direction, midfielder Alex Marrow has joined Blackburn Rovers, and Andre Moritz has ended his contract - click here for the full story from the Brazilian.