Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira confirms exciting team news ahead of Brighton but rules out star player

Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira has confirmed Wilfried Zaha will not play a part in this weekend’s Premier League game against Brighton at Selhurst but veteran midfielder James McArthur returns.

The Palace star picked up a hamstring injury against Newcastle United and missed the game against United last weekend.

The club initially hinted it was almost impossible for for Wilfried Zaha to be ready for the derby against Brighton even though there were a few who kept the hope of seeing their forward make a miraculous recovery.

But his manager says they will have to go out there and do it without the 30-year-old who has scored more against Brighton (9) than any other side in the Premier League.

He told reporters ahead of the game: “Wilfried is out but the good news is that Nathan has been training well and James McArthur and he will be part of the squad tomorrow.

The Palace boss also added that winter transfer signings Albert Sambi Lokonga and Naouirou Ahamada have also trained well in what is their first full week at the club.

“Both Sambi and Ahamada have trained well so it’s all looking good for us, it’s just up to us now,” he said.

The Eagles are without a win in their last four Premier League games even though they have always been up for a match against the Seagulls especially at Selhurst. The south London side are without a defeat in their last seven against Brighton in the league.