Saints midfielder Jason Puncheon has completed a permanent move to Crystal Palace.

The 27-year-old has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract with the Eagles, who he joined on loan earlier this season.

Palace are understood to have paid about £1.75m to secure his services long-term.

Puncheon signed for Saints in February 2010, making 81 appearances for the club and scoring ten goals.

He has played 22 times for Palace this term, netting three goals.

Puncheon said: "It is great to sign a permanent deal, it's something I dreamt about when I was a kid so I'm pleased to get it done.

"The massive factor in this was the chairman and the manager, the gaffer has shown great faith in me since he has been here and that's been unbelievable for me.

"It is a boost for me mentally - I thought it might happen at the end of the season, but it has come quicker and, obviously, that is good for both me and the football club."