The transfer deal for Emmanuel Adebayor is a testament to how far Crystal Palace have come, according to club CEO Phil Alexander.

The Eagles secured Adebayor’s services in the January window on a deal until the end of the season.

Adebayor, 31, has extensive Premier League and Champions League experience having represented Tottenham, Arsenal, Manchester City and Real Madrid.

Crystal Palace entered administration in 2010 but since then – under the co-ownership of Steve Parish – the club has established itself in the Premier League.

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Having enjoyed three seasons in the top flight, Alexander, who has been Palace CEO for 20 years, says the move for Adebayor is further evidence of the club’s rapid rise in English football.

“The club is certainly in a very healthy place right now,” he told News Shopper.

“This is our third year in the Premier League but we’re by no means getting complacent and we want to keep driving the business.

“We’ve made some very good decisions – we have seen a few managers come and go along the way but to be where we are, and to be able to sign someone like Emmanuel Adebayor, is testament to how far the club has come.

Alexander, the longest serving CEO in English football, added: “It’s no secret that we need to score more goals and hopefully he can add to that.

“To be able to sign someone of his pedigree is great. I’m sure he will be a great addition to the squad.”

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