BySimon Griver, Simon Griver
Israel captain Yossi Benayoun says he will definitely be playing in either England or Spain in the new season, possibly with Crystal Palace.
Benayoun, 33, told an Israeli newspaper: "In the coming few days I will be agreeing a contract with a club in England or Spain."
Benayoun is reportedly in advanced talks with Palace although WBA, Getafe and Real Betis are also options. The newly-promoted Eagles are the midfielder’s first choice because it would enable him to carry on living in London with his wife Mirit and their four children.
Benayoun, 33, was released by Chelsea on June 30 after his three-year contract expired and has been training with Maccabi Haifa to maintain his fitness.
He made his 94th appearance for Israel on Wednesday night against Ukraine, equaling the national record for the number of caps held by Maccabi Haifa manager Arik Benado.
Meanwhile, both Maccabi Haifa and Maccabi Tel Aviv are hoping to secure a place in the Europa League group stage in next Thursday’s first leg matches.
Haifa host Romania’s FV Astra and Tel Aviv face PAOK Thessaloniki, with the away legs on August 29. Benado denied it was a ‘kind draw’. “These are tough opponents,” he insisted.