Former Crystal Palace winger Paul Ifill is set to turn his back on English football and join A-League side Wellington Phoenix.

The 29-year-old, who was released by Eagles boss Neil Warnock this summer, had been training with another of his old sides, Millwall, and was due for a trial at hometown club Brighton.

But he will head to New Zealand later next week in time for the Phoenix's opening A-League match against Australian side Newcastle Jets on August 9.

"There has always been a lot of pressure around signing a marquee-type player but we believed it was important to find the sort of player that was hungry to achieve and still had the passion to bring something to the club," said Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata.

"In that respect we had very good reports regarding Paul and we are delighted to sign him. We wanted the right people and we're pleased we've got that.

"Paul has pace, height and international experience - all the qualities we were looking for."