Crystal Palace sign Andrew Johnson on short-term deal

The striker returns for a second spell at Selhurst Park

Andrew Johnson during his first spell at Crystal Palace (GETTY IMAGES)

Andrew Johnson has joined Crystal Palace on a short-term contract having been made a free-agent by QPR over the summer.

The 33-year-old has agreed a deal that ties him to the club until January and he has been included in the 25-man Premier League squad. Crystal Palace revealed he will also take on a coaching role under Neil Warnock.

The move sees the striker return for a second spell at Selhurst Park - the place that lifted his career to new heights.

Between 2002 and 2006 Johnson played 160 games for the Eagles and scored 85 goals. During that time Crystal Palace were promoted to the Premier League where Johnson would score 21 goals in one season.

Now 33-years-old, Johnson would leave for Everton before playing for Fulham and then most recently QPR.

"I am delighted to be coming back to a club that I love and have a real soft spot for," he told Crytal Palace's official website.

"I would like to thank the gaffer and the chairman for giving me this opportunity and I am looking forward to helping this football club have continued success in the Premier League.

“I have also been given an opportunity to help the youngsters in a coaching capacity, something I am really looking forward to getting involved in.”

He was released by QPR at the end of last season, despite contributing to their promotion winning season back to the Premier League with two goals in 20 appearances.

Because Johnson was a free-agent he was allowed to join a club outside of the transfer window.