Crystal Palace star midfielder back on training pitch and striker ‘not keen’ on Burnley transfer

Crystal Palace midfielder James McArthur is back on the training pitch working with the ball for the first time, as he bids to return from a hamstring injury.

The 32-year old started the season brilliantly, forming a covalent bond in the middle of the park with the energetic Conor Gallagher and the underrated Cheikhou Kouyaté before injury struck.

In his absence, Jeffrey Schlupp, Will Hughes and Luka Milivojevic have all been tasked to try and fill the void he left behind.

Vieira is growing a culture where team work is favoured over individualism, but the impending return of the Scottish midfielder for the first time since November will be welcome news.

LondonWorld understands that he was working hard with coaches on the ball, but the Liverpool game may come too soon.

Palace lost their first game of the year to West Ham, but came from a goal down to beat Millwall in the FA Cup and held Brighton to a 1-1 draw at the Amex.

The Eagles also have the hardworking Jordan Ayew and Cheikhou Kouyaté out at the Africa Cup of Nations, and Vieira will be hoping not to have him back to strengthen his squad.

The Scot will make a big different in what has been a very encouraging first season in south London for the French World Cup winner.

There is still no date for McArthur’s return, but the fact that he is back working with the ball will be seen as a step in the right direction, even if he will not be risked for the visit of Liverpool.

Christain Benteke is reported not to be keen on a move to Burnley,  after there had been reports that Palace might cash in on the Belgian forward to free up money for Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah.

But LondonWorld understands that the striker is settled in London and will not want to disrupt his family with a move to the North West.

Patrick Vieira is hoping to bring in another striker, that will improve competition for places and the recent improved performance of Jean-Philippe Mateta could mean one of his strikers might be tempted to leave for regular playing time.

Benteke fought off competition from Michy Batshuayi, and earned a contract in the process, but has only managed four goals and an assist this season.

The Eagles will take on title-chasing Liverpool this weekend, before they turn attention to the fourth round of the FA Cup.