James McArthur provides an adamant answer to whether Vieira and De Boer took the same approach at the Palace – South London News
Crystal Palace midfielder James McArthur says he “would not compare Patrick Vieira’s life to the parallels some have drawn in the game to Frank de Boer’s tenure at Selhurst Park”.
McArthur, the South Londoners third-highest appearance in the Premier League, has been with the club since 2014. The 33-year-old has started every Premier League game under Vieira and was named vice-captain by the French World Cup winner.
Since Vieira took the lead, the Eagles have been swept aside by Chelsea, tied 0-0 with a lively Brentford and tumbled out of the EFL Cup against a weakened side at Watford, making early comparisons with De Boer’s time at Crystal Palace.
When asked how different life was under Vieira than what he had previously experienced with De Boer, who was sacked after five games, McArthur said: “I wouldn’t compare them one bit.
“I don’t want to talk about another coach, but the coach who has come now has real energy, real drive, real winning mentality, knowledge of football, understanding of tactics and how to play all of them – it is second to none.
“He obviously played at a top level and you can see that in the way he wants us to play.”
Although Vieira took the lead twice at the London Stadium on Saturday, Vieira showed a determined effort to fight back – thanks to a double from Conor Gallagher – to get away with one point.
McArthur, who set up Gallagher for second place, said, “It also shows a lot of character, especially when you don’t win football games. It’s a process of getting better and winning football games. Coming back after you’ve been down twice shows real resilience and character.
“All the new signings were excellent. For him [Gallagher] Today it is a very special moment for him to score two goals for the club and get a good point away. “
Palace allowed several of the club’s regulars who were vital to keeping the Eagles in the premier league to leave this summer, with Gary Cahill, Scott Dann and Andros Townsend leaving.
Although McArthur admits that it was “hard to see” these players leaving, he added, “It’s part of football, that’s how it goes. I’ve been around long enough to understand that.
“To see some friends go was hard to see them go, of course, but at the same time it’s a new chapter.
“We’re moving on, catching up with these younger guys and as seasoned players trying to help them grow and strengthen the club.”
PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD
