Julian Speroni believes he still has a fight on his hands to become the Eagles' number one, despite Gabor Kiraly's departure.

The out of contract Hungarian was told by Eagles boss Peter Taylor he would not be offered a new deal at Selhurst Park and has been given a free transfer.

Speroni was given the final three games of the season to stake his claim for the first choice keeper berth next campaign and despite impressing by keeping two clean sheets, he is does not feel it is set in stone.

"I want to be number one next year, that's my target," he said. "But it's a long way to go until the beginning of next season so I will have to take it step by step.

"I have been very pleased with my performances over the past three games. I also feel I played well in the other two games I have played this season."

The Argentinian joined the Eagles at the same time as Kiraly in the summer of 2004, and competed for the keeper jersey ever since.

Despite their rivalry, Speroni revealed the two keepers had a great friendship and he will miss training with Kiraly.

"We were very close," Speroni added. "It is tough to see him go but I'm sure he will do well where ever he goes because he is a top keeper.

"He told me he had some options, so we will have to wait and see where he ends up."