Crystal Palace managed to beat Watford 1-0 this past weekend. The win marked the Eagles’ third win in a row, the best run of wins the side have had this season.
James McArthur put in a professional performance against Watford, earning himself a 7.7/10 match rating. He registered a 78% passing accuracy and racked up a stunning eight tackles during the match.
Is James McArthur invaluable to Crystal Palace?
Yes
No
After the match, manager Roy Hodgson praised his midfielder’s attitude after being subbed off the park in the 70th minute. The manager admitted that, while it wasn’t McArthur’s best match for Palace, he worked his socks off.
“He runs off the field, wants to shake hands with everyone,” said Hodgson. “That’s the sort of player that if you can find them, and they can produce performances for you, you’ve got half a chance.”
Crystal Palace tweeted about Hodgson’s compliments of the midfielder. Fans responded, praising the player’s attitude. They see him as a club legend.
He is class, no doubt. ??
— Jason Morris (@Jmozz1970) March 8, 2020
Jimmy Mac is the most underrated player at the club works his socks off week in week out
— Darren watson (@dalboy12) March 8, 2020
Cult hero
— Dan Hodder (@hodderhoff) March 8, 2020
One of our best ever players.
— Paul Ashby (@paulashby3) March 8, 2020
What a guy
— Emma Isitt (@emauve) March 8, 2020
Unsung hero. 100% commitment every match.
— Tony Peters (@thattonypeters) March 8, 2020
What do we think?
Due to being 32 years of age, it seems possible that McArthur may be coming to the tail end of his playing days. But, according to Hodgson and these fans, he is a player worth keeping around.