Justin Devenny breaks silence with emotional farewell message after permanent Crystal Palace exit

Justin Devenny finalised a permanent transfer to Stoke City, bringing an official close to an eventful three-year spell in South London that delivered silverware, memorable milestones, and rapid personal development.

The 22-year-old midfielder logged 60 appearances and scored four goals for Crystal Palace after arriving from Scottish Championship side Airdrieonians in August 2023.

What started as a low-profile arrival for the academy setup quickly transformed into a remarkable success story defined by silverware, international recognition, and crucial goals on both domestic and European stages.

Rise Through the Ranks in South London

Devenny wasted no time making an impression after crossing the border, quickly grabbing the armband and captaining the Under-21 side to turn heads across the club. His tireless work ethic and technical quality in the middle of the park meant senior coaches could not ignore his progression for long.

That stellar youth form forced senior doors open when he earned his full Premier League debut against Fulham at Selhurst Park in November 2024.

The breakthrough campaign triggered a rapid upward trajectory. Operating with maturity beyond his years, the youngster immediately looked at home against elite opposition, earning his maiden senior international call-up for Northern Ireland just weeks after his league bow.

He etched his name into Palace folklore shortly after by firing home his first Premier League goal away at Aston Villa, silencing the Villa Park faithful and announcing himself on the big stage.

Silverware and Special Moments

Devenny played an integral part during the most successful era in Palace’s history, chipping in across multiple fronts whenever called upon.

He found the back of the net during the successful FA Cup run in 2024-25, netting a crucial goal against Doncaster Rovers in the fourth round to help guide the Eagles through a tricky tie.

Perhaps his most iconic moment in a red and blue shirt, however, arrived at Wembley. He stepped up under extreme pressure to convert the winning penalty in the 2025 FA Community Shield triumph over Liverpool, sealing a historic piece of silverware and cementing his status among the club’s modern cult heroes.

European football brought further joy as he made six appearances and scored once during Palace’s trophy-winning UEFA Conference League campaign, proving he could handle the unique demands of continental competition without missing a beat.Parish and Player Farewells

Chairman Steve Parish paid glowing tribute to the departing star, praising his remarkable journey from the youth setup to senior heroics.

“We are all hugely proud of Justin’s development at Crystal Palace, particularly his role during the most successful period in the club’s history,” Parish said. “He is a fine young gentleman, and he leaves with the best wishes of everybody here for the future.”

Devenny himself took to social media to share his deep gratitude with the South London faithful following the confirmation of his switch to the bet365 Stadium.

“What a journey it’s been. I’m so grateful for every moment, every memory and everyone who has been a part of it,” Devenny wrote on Instagram.

“To the fans, thank you for always supporting me and making me feel part of the family. I’ll always look back on my time here with a smile and be proud of the memories we’ve made together. I wish everyone at Palace nothing but the best.”

A Fresh Chapter at Stoke City

Stoke City secured a player who arrives with a winning mentality, European experience, and proven versatility across the midfield. For Devenny, the permanent switch offers regular first-team football and an opportunity to become a central figure in the Potteries as they chase their own ambitions.

He leaves Selhurst Park having given supporters memories they will cherish for a lifetime, closing the book on an unforgettable chapter and stepping forward into a bright new challenge in his burgeoning career.

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Nazira Yusuf is a freelance football journalist covering Liverpool FC, Crystal Palace FC, Leeds United and Nottingham Forest. Also covering women’s football. Naz produces breaking news, match reports, interviews while also developing expertise in video journalism, social media and digital publishing.

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