Crystal Palace youngster Sullay Kaikai has rejoined Shrewsbury Town on loan until the end of the season.

The winger enjoyed a fruitful start to the season which included a place on the Eagles’ substitutes bench for the Capital One Cup victory over the Shropshire side back in August, before joining Mick Mellon’s side on loan until December.

The 20-year-old was a key figure for the League One side during his three-month temporary spell, scoring five times in 17 appearances - while also picking up the PFA Fans’ Player of the Month award for October.

Kaikai sent back to Shrewsbury after being recalled to cover for injuries

Kaikai was recalled by Palace boss Alan Pardew to add depth to a depleted squad over the Christmas period, largely due to injuries suffered by Yannick Bolasie, Connor Wickham and Bakary Sako. However, all three have now returned to full fitness and Palace have taken up the option to send Kaikai back to familiar surroundings to gain further first team experience.

Kaikai celebrating his first professional goal  - a last minute equaliser in the League Cup against Newcastle | Photo: Getty images
Kaikai celebrating his first professional goal - a late equaliser in the League Cup against Newcastle | Photo: Getty images

The academy graduate made the bench for the draw against Swansea City, but did not add to his sole Palace appearance, unlike Hiram Boateng who became the Eagles’ first academy league debutant since 2012 at the Liberty Stadium.

Having previously experienced loan spells at Crawley Town and Cambridge United, Kaikai has tasted plenty of senior football over the last two years and now has the chance to add to a successful first half of the season with the Shrews.

Mellon's side make up the final relegation place in the League One table, but can overtake Blackpool if they get at least a point from their game in hand over the Tangerines. 

Kaikai has made just one appearance for Palace’s first team, although scored a debut goal in a 3-2 League Cup defeat to Newcastle United - managed by Pardew - in 2014.

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About the author
Sam Smith
VAVEL UK sub-editor. Premier League and Football League accredited journalist.