Teenage talent Freddie Sears is to join Championship side Crystal Palace on a season long loan from West Ham United.

The 19-year-old hotshot has been shipped out by boss Gianfranco Zola to gain some much needed first-team experience. Palace have beaten a number of clubs, including Sheffield Wednesday to land the striker who is tipped to have a bright future at the top level.

Sears has made 24 first team appearances for The Hammers since breaking through from the youth scene at Upton Park in 2007. But now, Zola feels it's crucial for the youngster's development that he is tested in the more physically demanding Championship.

The hitman failed to find the net in any of his 22 appearances last year, and it is hoped a change of scenery will see the striker returning to form.