Eagles assistant manager Neil McDonald has rubbished reports linking Southend United hitman Freddy Eastwood with a move to Selhurst Park.

Ex-West Ham trainee Eastwood was outstanding for Southend last season notching 24 goals for the south-east Essex side after his move from Conference outfit Grays Athletic last season.

Despite only playing a bit part role due to the arrival at Roots Hall of ex-Manchester City front man and Bermudan international Shaun Goater, the striker has already scored four times this season.

It is believed that Southend United boss Steve Tilson would want in the region of around £500,000 to allow Eastwood, who scored Southend's winner against Nottingham Forest at the weekend, to leave the current Coca Cola League One leaders.

But Crystal Palace assistant manager Neil McDonald has poured cold water over any potential move for the striker saying that the rumours are pure speculation.

The former Bolton Wanderers first-team coach said: "I haven't heard anything about that so I wouldn't think it's going to happen."

A move for the striker is made even more unlikely considering Eagles manager Iain Dowie already has an array of talent up front at his disposal.

The Palace boss currently has Andrew Johnson, Dougie Freedman, Jon Macken, Clinton Morrison and Wayne Andrews all fighting for the two front spots.