Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew is convinced that Andros Townsend will be an important player for the Eagles after making his first appearance for his new club in a friendly scoreless draw with Philadelphia Union.

Another of Palace's summer signings, James Tomkins, featured, replacing Scott Dann at half-time.

"James got stretched twice in his first two moments in the game and he's just got a little strain so that was a bit of a disappointment, but I don't think it's going to keep him out for too long.

"Andros showed why he is going to be an important player for us. I thought he was the real highlight of the game for our team."