Crystal Palace set for 'big boost' over £55k-a-week star at Selhurst Park

Crystal Palace midfielder James McArthur could provide a ‘big boost’ for the club if he returns from injury soon, according to The Sun journalist Tom Barclay.

The 34-year-old is yet to feature in the current campaign after suffering a recurrence of a groin problem in the Eagles’ final pre-season game with Ligue outfit Montpellier.

McArthur missed a chunk of Palace’s preparations for 2022/23 before coming back earlier than expected to feature against Gillingham Town and Queens Park Rangers.

However, the Scotland international picked up a fresh fitness concern on the eve of the new season getting underway in what was a setback for both Palace and the player.

“It’s just a step back. It is an injury,” manager Patrick Vieira said after a 4-2 victory over Montpellier. “Hopefully it’s not going to be as long as we think.”

McArthur was limited to just 15 Premier League starts last term due to a serious hamstring problem and other issues, but he could be closing in on a return to action.

The current international break means Palace do not have another fixture until the start of October when they take on Chelsea, potentially allowing McArthur an opportunity to regain his fitness.

When asked how important McArthur’s possible comeback next month could be, Barclay informed GiveMeSport that Vieira ‘sung his praises’ on several occasions last term.

He said: “Yeah, if that’s how it transpires, I think it’s a big boost. I think he fits in very well with their style of play.

“I’ve done a few of their press conferences this year, but I did a lot of them last year, and Vieira often sung his praises. He does seem to be the kind of player that goes under the radar a little bit. I think the Palace fans fully appreciate what he brings to the