Darryl Flahavan has ended his eight-year spell at Southend after agreeing to join Crystal Palace on a three-year-contract. The 30-year-old goalkeeper was part of the Shrimpers' side that suffered play-off disappointment at the end of last season, after Steve Tilson's men were beaten by Doncaster at the semi-final stage. Flahavan was then offered a new one-year-deal to stay at Roots Hall but when Neil Warnock made his interest known, the former Woking keeper decided to make the switch to Selhurst Park. And as givemefootball's Mark Shail discovered, Flahavan is looking forward to a fresh challenge and a return to the Championship.
Q:HOW DID THE MOVE TO PALACE COME ABOUT?
A:Just a few weeks ago my agent rang me up and told me there was interest from Crystal Palace. He said for me to go down there and meet the manager (Warnock) and after I spoke to him I made my mind up that I wanted to sign.
Q:WERE YOU DISAPPOINTED TO LEAVE SOUTHEND AFTER SO LONG THERE?
A:Yes, but I spoke to Southend when the season ended and they weren't prepared to offer me anything longer that a year. My son Aaron is starting school soon though and that was an important factor in the decision because I wanted something more long-term. That wasn't going to happen at Southend so I made myself available for a move and as soon as I spoke to Neil Warnock I knew Palace was where I wanted to be.
Q:HAVE YOU NOW GOT OVER SOUTHEND'S PLAY-OFF DEFEAT?
A:When you go into the play-offs you have it in the back of your mind that you are going up and when you don't it's obviously disappointing. But you have to put it into the back of your mind. It's a new season for me, a new start which I am looking forward to. I don't like to dwell too much on the past. That's gone now – you have to move forward.
Q:WHAT WERE YOUR SPECIAL MEMORIES FROM YOUR STINT AT ROOTS HALL?
A:I had such a great time at Southend, I really did love every second of being at the club. Individually, winning the PFA League One Player of the Season, along with the Fans' and Players' Player of the Season awards meant a lot to me. So did the promotions, the games at the Millennium Stadium and of course, beating Manchester United (in the Carling Cup). That was amazing, but playing a part in taking the club from the bottom of League Two into the Championship was wonderful.
Q:I SUPPOSE ONE STAFF MEMBER YOU WILL MISS AT SOUTHEND IS GOALKEEPING COACH LEE TURNER?
A:I really do owe Lee a lot because he has been different class for me. He really improved my game and I'd also like to thank the supporters. They were always fantastic to me whether it was around the ground or in a supermarket and it was something that I really appreciated. I wish them all the best for the future and hope the club keeps doing well.
Q:AND NOW YOU WILL BE CHALLENGING JULIAN SPERONI FOR THE NO.1 GOALKEEPING SPOT AT PALACE?
A:He's a good goalkeeper but I'm here to challenge him for a place. I'm confident in my ability and will aim to make the most of any chance that comes my way.
