Harrison hangs up boots

The former Middlesbrough left back suffered the horrendous injury in a reserve team outing against Reading in January 2001.

Despite attempts to relaunch his career with the South East Londoners, the full back has decided to hang up his boots after failing to fully overcome the problem.

Harrison joined The Eagles from Boro in the summer of 2000 for £200,000.

Palace chief Trevor Francis spelt out his sympathy for the defender, stating: "Sadly for Craig, it's terrible news.

"He had to inform the chairman and myself that his long fight to regain fitness has not succeded and he has decided to retire from the game.

"This really does put things into perspective when a player of his age has to come to this decision and I am sure I echo the sentiments of all Crystal Palce supporters in wishing Craig the very best in the future following this sad end to his career."