Arsenal legend Alan Smith believes James McArthur has been instrumental to Crystal Palace’s superb start to the season.

The Eagles have won five of their eight matches this term and have stormed up to fourth in the league.

The likes of Wilfried Zaha, Yannick Bolasie and Yohan Cabaye have frequently been praised for their efforts in lifting Palace up to a Champions League spot, but Smith directed his praise elsewhere.

The former Gunner, who scored 70 league goals in 264 games for the north London outfit, believes “unsung hero” James McArthur has been integral to Alan Pardew’s team.

“A player who doesn’t get many mentions at all, James McCarthur, is an unsung hero for Palace,” Smith told the Premier League website.

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“He sits there, he wins tackles, he gives the simple ball.

“He gets up and down and doesn’t make too many mistakes.

“I think he’s been really important in a fantastic start for Palace.”

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