CRYSTAL Palace manager Ian Holloway admits he is delighted to see his club captain back in action.

Defender Paddy McCarthy returned to the Eagles’ line-up for Tuesday’s 4-1 friendly win at Dulwich Hamlet and successfully came through 45 minutes in his first game for more than a year.

The Irishman missed the entire 2012/2013 promotion campaign with a groin injury and boss Holloway praised his attitude when asked how pleased he was to see McCarthy back in action.

“I am absolutely delighted,” the manager said.

“He is such a wonderful fellow to have around the place.

“The discipline he showed last year and how difficult must have been for him not to have played all season.

“It was wonderful to see him get through 45 minutes.

“He was fuming, he wanted another 15 but that’s Paddy for you.”

The big aim now for the defender is to prove he is worthy of being in Crystal Palace’s squad this season before the final list is submitted to the Premier League.

Holloway explained: “Hopefully he is trying to prove to me that he should be in the 25, in those names and having a chance.

“That’s what it is all about.

“We’ve got to be pedal to the metal as they say to get anything out of this and I can assure you he is one of my warriors who will be there trying to do it.”

Crystal Palace conclude their pre-season campaign on Saturday against Lazio at Selhurst Park, kick-off 3pm.

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