Former Bristol City starlet Jamie Taylor has confirmed his move to Crystal Palace, telling Bristol Live he’s “happy” to get the deal over the line.
With the Eagles making a concerted effort to inject youth into an ageing squad that failed to win its last eight Premier League games last season, the arrival of an 18-year-old midfielder represents another step in the right direction.
Taylor was released by Bristol City this summer but has now joined Eberechi Eze, Nathan Ferguson, Scott Banks and co at Selhurst Park.
“I’m really happy and excited to be here and can’t wait for the season to begin,” Taylor said.
“I was at Bristol City quite a long time so it was a big change knowing I wasn’t going to be there any more.
“It was difficult when I found out and then we were into lockdown and there wasn’t much I could do. It was quite a difficult time but now, thankfully, I’m here.”
With James McArthur, Luka Milivojevic, Cheikhou Kouyate and others fighting for a place in Roy Hodgson’s starting XI, Taylor will have to be patient and prove himself behind the scenes at Crystal Palace.
But, alongside Eze, Ferguson, Tyrick Mitchell and co, the teenager represents an exciting future for a club that’s finally starting to plan for the long-term.
“James has bounced back stronger and sharper then ever and has earned a well–deserved contract at Crystal Palace,” Taylor’s agent, Eric Anyan, added.
“This situation happens in football and Bristol City won’t be the only club that has released a player (who has) gone on to achieve great things – and it won’t the last.”
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