March 24 2006

Bob Dowie

Crystal Palace director of football Bob Dowie revealed the Eagles pulled out of a deal to sign Wealdstone striker Jermaine Beckford because the asking price became "ridiculous", by Stuart Pink.

The 20-year-old hit man had been on trial at Selhurst Park and the Dowie brothers were impressed with what they saw in training and when he featured for Palace reserves against Arsenal.

But despite their admiration for the 35-goal striker, a deal was not agreed and Beckford went on to complete a surprise move to Leeds United last Wednesday.

Bob Dowie said: "We didn't do a deal because we thought the money got too ridiculous. We got him in and we could have done a deal but we chose not to.

"It went from being a reasonable risk into unreasonable risk. We wish him all the best though, he's a nice lad."

Another players looking to secure a possible move to the Eagles is Charlie Sheringham, son of West Ham and ex-England striker Teddy, who was recently released by Ipswich Town.

The 18-year-old has been handed a two-week trial by the Eagles and he played in the club's U18s clash with Spurs last Tuesday.

The youngster plays in a similar role to his father a deep lying forward and will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of the Champions League winner by starting his professional career in south London.

Meanwhile, the Eagles are unlikely to seal any loan deals before the deadline expires this Thursday.

Palace boss Iain Dowie is content with what he already has at his disposal for the remainder of the campaign.

Live Croydon Guardian text commentary