Crystal Palace 0-0 Fulham

FANS' favourite Dougie Freedman celebrated 10 years at Crystal Palace last night with a testimonial match against Fulham.

With his future at the club uncertain, thousands of fans travelled to show their appreciation to the popular Scot for possibly the last time.

Freedman admitted to feeling moved by the rapturous reception given to him as he walked on to the pitch, He said: "I'm not very emotional but when you get the turnout from the fans, players and ex-managers and you see them taking the time and effort, that made me emotional.

"I couldn't really focus on the match. I usually use my brain to try to win the game but my mind was elsewhere tonight."

The game against Premiership Fulham finished 0-0 and was instantly forgettable, with neither team creating any clear cut chances.

New signing Nick Carle provided the only flair on show with the Australian instrumental in all of Palace's attacks.

His invention and creativity will be invaluable for the team as the season progresses.

Although there was little to cheer on the field, at half-time the Selhurst faithful were treated to a number of appearances from ex-players and managers.

Dean Gordon, Geoff Thomas and Aki Riihilahti were among those attending the special occasion along with Andy Johnson, who is due to complete his move from Everton to Fulham today.

Freedman was keen to put on a show and get as many old faces to return as possible, but even he must have been surprised by the show of support given by his fellow professionals.

He said: "It was a good night, I really enjoyed it and it went to plan.

"I tried to put together as many Palace legends, managers and players to show my appreciation to the fans. I didn't want it to just be the Dougie Freedman testimonial with all eyes on me."

The modest Palace hero, who has scored 108 goals in his 368 appearance for the club, doesn't regard himself as a legend.

He explained: "I find it very uneasy to accept the status of legend.

"When someone says it to me, I tend to go into my shell as I never set out to be that.

"I set out to entertain the fans. I just tried to do my best, legend is a bit too strong."

Freedman added: "I have a good relationship and a very good bond with the fans and it doesn't break if fans don't sing my name one game. It goes beyond that.

"It goes beyond just turning up tonight. I'm very, very lucky to be supported by these fans as much as I have over the 10 years.

"Over a long period of time, they've shown a lot of faith in me and that's what I'll look back on."