Former Chelsea defender Gary Cahill has joined Crystal Palace on a free transfer.

The former England ace was released by the Blues at the end of last season following his seven-year stay at the Stamford Bridge where he won eight major honours. The 33-year-old won 61 caps for England before “stepping aside” from international football in August 2018.

“I’m glad to be here, I think it’s a good opportunity for me to continue my career in the Premier League, and to play in a good, exciting team. There are some very exciting, talented players here. I’m looking forward to the challenge,” he said.

“I’m hungry to prolong my career as long as I possibly can – I feel like I’m in great shape and whoever I play for, I’d like to think that I give it 110% and leave everything out there – so hopefully that will be good enough for the manager, my team-mates and also the fans,” he added.

He becomes the third summer signing for the Eagles following the arrival of Stephen Henderson and Jordan Ayew.  Cahill spent most of last season on the bench as he only made just two Premier League appearances.