James McArthur has handed Scotland and Crystal Palace a boost after the midfielder admitted that he is ahead of schedule in his recovery from torn ankle ligaments
The 28-year-old initially feared his season would be over after sustaining the injury in the February 2 defeat at home to Bournemouth.
But the former Hamilton and Wigan playmaker now hopes to be back within three weeks to help halt the Eagles’ alarming slide down the English Premier League table and take part in their FA Cup semi-final against Watford.
The 22-times capped McArthur, speaking to cpfc.co.uk, said: “It’s a slow injury and it’s taken its time to heal but the target is for me to be back in three weeks.
“I think it’s going to be tight, we’re trying to push it as much as we can but it’s got to be controlled as well.
“As a player it’s the worst feeling in the world not being able to play and participate on a Saturday or Tuesday night to try and help your team, there’s that spot in your life that’s missing when you’re not involved on a match day.
“I’m there supporting the boys and cheering them on trying to get a victory and I’ve tried to stay positive, but it’s so tough not being able to help on the pitch.
“You can do as much geeing up and keeping everyone as positive as you can, but when the boys go onto the field it’s all them and it’s hard to influence that.”
