European Qualifiers: Scotland's James McArthur ready for Germany after joining Crystal Palace

James McArthur: Became Palace's record signing

James McArthur is looking forward to concentrating on Scotland's clash with Germany following a "stressful time" at the end of the transfer window.

The midfielder became Crystal Palace's record signing on Monday, joining from Wigan in a deal reported to be worth £7million.
Wigan had initially insisted McArthur was not for sale at any price, but he then looked set to join Premier League newcomers Leicester only for the proposed move to fall through.
But McArthur then completed a deadline-day switch to Palace, and he is now back in Dortmund preparing for the European Championship qualifier against the world champions.

New Crystal Palace signing James McArthur says anything more than survival will be a bonus this season

"It was a stressful time for me over the last five or six days but thankfully it's over now," the 26-year-old said.
"I wouldn't say it's enjoyable until you get that signed and know what your next stage is. But it's over now and I'm thankful to be a Crystal Palace player.
"It's massive to be back in the Premier League. That's where every top player wants to play and I'm the same. I want to test myself against the best players."

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McArthur insisted he was not unduly concerned when his move to Leicester collapsed, adding: "That's what football is all about, highs and lows, but you need to make sure the lows ain't too low and the highs ain't too high.
"Whatever happened, happened. I wasn't really trying to think about it too much. If I stayed I was staying at a great club, if I moved I'm back in the Premier League. It was a win-win really."
McArthur's move to Palace was also further good news for his former club Hamilton, who currently lie second in the Scottish Premiership and will bank £600,000 as a sell-on fee
"For a club like Hamilton to get the money, it's great for their youth system," McArthur said. "I would always recommend players to go to a club like that where the manager gives youth players a chance.
"Young players playing Under-21s don't get as much experience as playing in first-team games. It's great for Hamilton and the young players there.
"They've had a great start but they have a great manager, good young players and a bit of experience. They've got the whole package and I hope they keep it up."