Dougie Freedman

John Egan was delighted to get first-team football at the Eagles

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Sunderland defender John Egan is grateful to Crystal Palace for giving him the opportunity to gain first-team experience.

The 19-year-old made two appearances for the Eagles, in the FA Cup defeat at Derby and the loss at Blackpool.

“I wanted to go to Championship level and really test myself,” Egan said.

“Once I heard Palace were interested, I saw it as a no-brainer really to go and test myself at that level.

“I was thrown in at the deep end at Derby after just one day of training under my belt.

“There was a fair buzz around the place with them being in the Carling Cup semi-final at the time.

“Everyone was coming into training with a big smile on their face.

“Even though it ended with them getting knocked out, the players and the manager believe that the play-offs are still possible this season.”

Egan feels he has come back to the Stadium of Light as an improved player for the experience.

“I got huge experience there, and I think I’ve come back a better player.

“I really enjoyed it. I played two games and really benefited from those, as well as training with the first-team every day.

“They were good to me down there so it was a good experience.

“Now my aim is to kick on, and try to impress the manager here and get into his plans.”