PETER Taylor was delighted after making Leon Cort his first signing as Crystal Palace boss.

He said: "I'm very pleased as Leon was a very reliable player for the past two seasons at Hull.

"He wins every header and he's a great player and a good professional."

He added: "The fact he never got booked in 90 games with Hull means he stands up and is a patient defender.

"He's still learning and improving but he was absolutely excellent for me at Hull.

"I signed him on a free transfer from Southend and he played in nearly every game for me and scored some very important goals from headers.

"I have no doubt he'll be a good signing."

Taylor worked quickly to plug the gap vacated by Fitz Hall's departure to Wigan and he revealed a clause in the former Saints defender's contract was behind the move.

He said: "Fitz Hall was an excellent player for Palace and he'll be a very good signing for Wigan.

"But we couldn't do anything about it because a clause in his contract said he could go for £3m."

With pre-season only a few days away Taylor has still to finalise his back room staff but things are progressing.

He said: "I'm still talking to all the staff here and we'll see where we go from there.

"It's important we're all on the same wavelength and can work hard together.

"If for some reason it isn't the case then I may bring some fresh faces in."

Meanwhile midfielder Ben Watson wants to commit his future to the Eagles by signing a new contract.

The 20-year-old said: "I have been lucky enough to play for our new gaffer at under-21 level and he's very good.

"I am hopefully going to get a new deal sorted and I'll be at Palace for a few more years."