Kevin Phillips: Just five appearances from the bench this season

The 40-year-old has made only five substitute appearances this season after firing the Eagles into the Premier League back in May, scoring the winning penalty in the play-off final against Watford.

The former England international joined Palace on loan from Blackpool at the start of the year and signed a permanent deal in the summer, but he has now been released by mutual consent.

He told the club's website: "It went well for me at the end of the season and then the play-off final - getting the goal and securing promotion was right up there with one of my highest achievements in football.

"I have to thank the club and the supporters who have been absolutely magnificent to me and welcomed me with open arms from day one. That will stay in my memories for a long time."

Palace boss Tony Pulis added: "He is a fantastic professional and there is no way I would stand in the way of what he wants to do.

"He has been brilliant to have around the place in the last few weeks that I have been here and of course he played a major role in getting this club promoted through the play-offs.

"His attitude in and around the rest of the players is first class and you can see why, at 40 years of age, he is still playing in the Premier League. I wish him every success in the future."