Luka Milivojevic to leave Crystal Palace this summer

Crystal Palace have announced that Luka Milivojevic will be leaving the club at the end of his contract this summer.

The Serbian midfielder joined Palace in the 2016-17 winter transfer window from Olympiacos, going on to make 198 appearances for the club across seven Premier League seasons.

Milivojevic, 32, has scored 28 goals in the Premier League during his time at Selhurst Park, with only Christian Benteke and Wilfried Zaha ahead of the former Red Star Belgrade player in the club’s top flight scoring charts.

“We have been lucky to have a professional like Luka at the club for so long,” said Chairman Steve Parish. “He has contributed an immense amount to the team both on and off the pitch, and is a crucial figure in our long stay in the Premier League.

“His performances in red and blue have only been matched by his dedication on the training pitch, providing leadership to the squad and advice to young players in his role as club captain. I wish him the very best of luck for the future.”

Milivojevic said: “It has been a privilege to spend almost seven years at such a special club.

“I want to thank all of the managers, coaches and staff members who made my stay here such an enjoyable one. When I look at the club now compared to when I arrived, I see a team full of ambition to reach higher and higher – you can be sure I will be following the results from afar.

“To the fans – there is something special about Selhurst Park, and the way you got behind me on the field, whether we were winning or losing, is something I will never forget. To play in the Premier League is every player’s dream, and to do it for so long at Crystal Palace has been an honour – I hope that I have made you all proud.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD