CRYSTAL Palace manager Tony Pulis has become the 100th member of the newly-formed Newport County AFC Former Players’ Association.

Newport-born Pulis played for County between 1984 and 1986 after two spells at Bristol Rovers.

After retiring he has gone on to forge a successful managerial career with AFC Bournemouth, where he hung up his boots, Gillingham, Bristol City, Portsmouth, Plymouth Argyle, Stoke City and Palace.

Pulis led Stoke to the FA Cup final in 2011 and is being tipped to win the manager of the year award for guiding Palace to safety in the Premier League this season.

The Eagles’ remarkable comeback from 3-0 down to draw 3-3 with Liverpool also had a big say in the destiny of the title with Manchester City now strong favourites to be crowned champions this weekend.

“I am absolutely delighted to announce the 100th member of the FPA,” said club historian Andrew Taylor.

“He will be given the freedom of Manchester, at least the blue side, and South London and for many people deserves to be the manager of the year – welcome Tony Pulis.”

The NCAFC FPA was formed on February 27 this year – a quarter of a century to the day since the original club was wound up.

Membership is open to anyone who has made a first team appearance as well as former managers and first team coaching staff.

Pulis joins other recent club legends to sign up in the past two weeks, including Tommy Tynan, Dave Gwyther, Mark Aizlewood, Craig Hughes and Julian Alsop.

Eligible members and supporters or organisations who wish to suggest future events are asked to contact Taylor on andrew.taylor470@btinternet.com or 07799470185.

To celebrate the 25th anniversary the club returns to the refurbished ballroom of the Lysaghts Institute for an anniversary dinner on Wednesday, June 18, at 7pm.

There will be a three-course dinner, entertainment from local band Jarzino and guest speaker John Hartson. Players of all eras will be in attendance.

To reserve a £35 ticket or a table of ten for £350 contact David Hando on 07802 487042 or email david.hando@hotmail.com