Peter Taylor has made his second signing as Crystal Palace manager with the capture of Wolves winger Mark Kennedy on a free transfer.

The 30-year-old Republic of Ireland international finalised the deal yesterday (Tuesday) and agreed a three-year contract, subject to appearances.

The move came as a surprise to the former Millwall and Liverpool man but he was left in no doubt it was the right decision.

"It came out of the blue completely," said Kennedy. "I had been speaking to a number of clubs and I was very close to signing for one of them.

"I then had a phone call from the manager (Taylor) and we took it from there but I'm really pleased that we've managed to come to an agreement and I've signed for Crystal Palace."

Kennedy's arrival at Selhurst Park follows Leon Cort's move to the Eagles from Hull last week, as Taylor starts to rebuild his side following the departures of Andrew Johnson, Fitz Hall and Mikele Leigertwood.

Taylor has been a keen admirer of Kennedy and was delighted to have brought him to Selhurst Park to help solve the Eagles' left-sided problem.

Taylor said: "I think he's an experienced player, with a good left foot and he wanted to come.

"We are very pleased Mark has signed. He is a good crosser of the ball and it was a good bit of business to get him here on a free transfer."

Kennedy has a good record of being involved with successful promotion sides and is hopeful he can add his lucky touch to the Eagles.

Kennedy added: "I've been fortunate to get promoted with Wolves and with (Manchester) City as well. They were two fantastic experiences and I'm sure a lot of the lads here will know about that from the previous promotion.

"That bodes well so we have good experience and there are a lot of young kids here as well, so I think the set-up is particularly good with the blend of experience and youth."

Taylor revealed the Eagles were stepping up their bid to add more signings to the current squad, with a replacement for Andrew Johnson the priority. But Taylor admitted the new frontman would not necessarily be in the Johnson mould.

"If you find somebody who is incredibly quick and clever like Andy you would go for him but that will cost a lot of money," he said.

"The most important thing is that the person you bring in has got a goal rate and, if he plays alongside somebody helps their partner get a goal rate."

Meanwhile, one player heading out of Selhurst Park is club captain Tony Popovic. The Australian international, who represented the Socceroos in the World Cup, was out of contract at Crystal Palace and Taylor decided not to offer him a new deal.

Taylor added: "Tony's been released. He's out of contract and I know he has been in talks but in the end I decided to allow the release."