James McCarthy’s future at Crystal Palace seems unclear – but Roy Hodgson remains a big fan of the midfielder.
The Irish ace joined Palace from Everton in August 2019, with the Eagles taking a gamble on him despite his injury woes.
The 30-year-old has only managed six Premier League starts this season, but he did play 11 minutes of Sunday’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace.
There is confusion over just when McCarthy’s contract expires; some claim this summer, some claim in the summer of 2022.
Either way, McCarthy will likely generate major interest this summer, based on rumours that emerged in January.
90Min claim that Celtic are particularly keen on McCarthy, giving that he grew up supporting the Bhoys.
McCarthy was a top talent in Scottish football with Hamilton Academical, and a future with Celtic would be appealing if he gives up a Premier League career.
Now though, Palace boss Hodgson has told The Mirror’s Football pull-out (p9) that he expects to see an awful lot of McCarthy at Palace moving forward.
Hodgson seemingly has no plans to let McCarthy go judging by these comments, and thinks Palace will now see his quality again now he is back and ready to go.
“He’s been unfortunate because he’s picked up injuries at the wrong time, and also had personal problems which he’s had to deal with,” said Hodgson. “The good thing is that he’s fit now; fit and ready to go. I expect him, especially with all the matches we have coming up, to play on a regular basis.”
“He has been a bit unlucky in particular this season, but he’s strong enough mentally. We know he has footballing ability. Things could have gone better for him, of course, there is no doubt about that. But I must say that the times he has been fit and played, he has shown the quality of player he is.”
“With a third of the season still remaining I am expecting big things from him in these games going forward – and we are going to an awful lot more of him.” he added.
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