Describing his move as a ‘fresh start’, McCarthy said: “I can’t wait to get started. I’ve trained all pre-season and I’m feeling fit and ready to go if selected.”
Explaining what encouraged him to sign for Palace, McCarthy revealed two-time former teammate James McArthur was a key factor in making his decision.
“To be honest,” he said, “speaking to Jamesy and then just coming to Selhurst Park last season - I didn’t actually play but I was on the bench - it feels like a very nice club, a nice family club. The fans obviously come out in their numbers and I spoke to Jamesy, he couldn’t speak any more highly of it.”
McCarthy and McArthur have played together at both Hamilton Academical and Wigan Athletic - where they played alongside one another at Wembley as the Latics won the 2013 FA Cup final - and have been noted for their similar playing style as well as deceptively close names…
“It’s brilliant [reuniting with McArthur],” said McCarthy. “As I said, he’s been on text, been on the phone just telling me how good a place it is and telling me to try and get here as soon as possible. It’s been a long summer and I’m delighted to be here and excited to work with James again.
“The two of us will work hard for the team. Jamesy’s popped up with a few goals which is brilliant to see as well. I think I want to add some goals to my game as well but the most important thing is working hard and get going. I want to work hard and it’s good for a fresh start.”
You can watch McCarthy’s first interview as an Eagle in full below!