McArthur Puts Hassle Behind Him

Scotland midfielder James McArthur is looking to put a stressful period behind him as he focuses on the clash with world champions Germany. McArthur saw his preparations for the European Championship qualifier in Dortmund interrupted when Wigan accepted a bid for him on Monday from Crystal Palace. The former Hamilton player signed on at Selhurst Park to end a transfer saga that began with Wigan insisting he was not for sale at any price, and continued with a move to Leicester falling through. "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." McArthur tried not to get too embroiled in the speculation or downbeat when the move to Leicester collapsed. "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," he said. "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 has become Palace's record buy after the Eagles paid a reported £7million. But he said: "I'm not really bothered about that to be honest. I'll just go about doing my job and trying to impress the manager." Hamilton were also celebrating after bagging #600,000 from their sell-on fee, continuing their excellent start to the season which sees Alex Neil's side sit second in the Scottish Premiership. "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."