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James McArthur signs new contract at Crystal Palace

James McArthur has committed his long-term future to Crystal Palace after putting pen-to-paper on a new three-year deal with the club.

The Scotland international, 27, is the south London outfit's record signing after he arrived from Wigan in a £7 million deal last summer.

McArthur impressed during his debut campaign at Palace and manager Alan Pardew was keen to tie the midfielder down to a new contract.

Everton and Norwich were both reported to be interested in McArthur, but the Scot will now extend his stay at Selhurst Park until 2018.

"I'm delighted, I had a fantastic time last year and I think the club's going in a great direction," McArthur told the club's official website.

"Everyone's positive around the place and I'm really looking forward to the coming years.

"I think there was a bit of general interest [in me], but Palace is where I want to be, I'm happy and that's the main thing in football.

"When you're happy, you need to try to keep that and keep going with it. I think the club have got the potential to go places. It was an easy decision. There was nothing really to consider."

Pardew, who guided Palace to 10th in the Premier League last season, lauded the impact of McArthur since his arrival at Selhurst Park.

"James is a very important player for this football club, he was key for me last season and he has impressed with every aspect of his play," Pardew said.

"I've been a fan of his for a long time and was impressed with his performances when he was playing for Wigan.

"Because of the quality that he brings and the attitude that he has, it was important to offer him this new deal."

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