London, Jan 3 (IANS): Alan Pardew was Saturday named Crystal Palace manager after being released from his contract at Newcastle United.

The former West Ham United and Charlton Athletic manager will take charge of the FA Cup tie with Dover Athletic Sunday after signing a three-and-a-half year deal at Selhurst Park, reports dailymail.co.uk.

Palace confirmed the appointment of Pardew, a former midfielder at the south London club Saturday for a compensation package believed to be 3.5 million pounds.

"I am absolutely delighted to be the new manager of Crystal Palace," Pardew said.

"Everyone knows my history here, what's important now is to move the club to the next level. I believe with the backing of Steve and the board I can help achieve that and create some new exciting history for the club."

In a statement, Eagles chairman Steve Parish said: "We wanted a manager with a great track record and proven experience in the Premier League. In Alan we have both these things as well as a man who has great affection for this club and shares my determination to take us to the next level."

Football's worst kept secret was finally made public Saturday morning, two days after the 53-year-old, who spent more than four years at Tyneside, sat in the stands and watched his Palace team draw 0-0 at Aston Villa.

A statement from the Magpies said: "Newcastle United can confirm that Alan Pardew has been released from his contract in order to be installed as the new manager of Crystal Palace."

Speaking to Newcastle's website, Pardew said: "It has been a privilege to manage Newcastle United and I want to thank my captain Fabricio Coloccini and all the players, John Carver, Steve Stone, Andy Woodman and all the staff, all of who have been outstanding servants to Newcastle United."