Steve Parish says tying down James McArthur, Nathaniel Clyne, James Tomkins, and Jordan Ayew to fresh contracts was of “pivotal importance” to ensure the Crystal Palace playing squad kept its fine balance of youth and experience.
The quartet of players have all put pen to paper on new one-year deals at Selhurst Park that will keep them at the club until at least the summer of 2023. Together, the group have amassed a total of 677 Palace appearances, with McArthur leading the way with 249 outings in red and blue, followed by academy graduate Clyne (171), Ayew (133) and Tomkins (124).
All four players are now over the age of 30 but still have plenty to offer Patrick Vieira and the team. McArthur’s presence in midfield was especially important when he was fit and available to play last season, while Ayew has become a favourite of Vieira for his hard work following his 31 league appearances, often starting Palace’s biggest games.
