Crystal Palace have confirmed the signing of Darren Ambrose from south London neighbours Charlton on a free transfer.

The 25-year-old midfielder has put pen to paper on a two-year deal at Selhurst Park having left the relegated Addicks after his contract expired at the end of last season.

"I've been after Darren for years, I was even prepared to offer up to £1million before he went to Newcastle in 2003 when I was at Sheffield United," Eagles manager Neil Warnock told the club's official website. "I have always thought he was a quality player and we have missed a dead-ball specialist since Ben Watson went."

He added: "He is very flexible and all I am asking him to do is play with a smile on his face, because I think he has been down in the doldrums the last couple of years."