PALACE manager Patrick Vieira has revealed that his side are in good shape regarding fitness however the weekend's game comes too soon for a couple of players.
In his press conference before Saturday's FA Cup fixture against Hartlepool Vieira has given a positive update on his squad.
The manager confirmed that James Tomkins and James McArthur have returned to first-team training.
Vieira also said that Wilfried Zaha and Jordan Ayew have returned after their national sides were knocked out of the Africa Cup of Nations.
The boss is still concerned over Zaha and McArthur and they are unlikely to play in the cup fixture.
He told the media: "Looking good. We have Macca and Tomkins who have started training with the team. Jordan and Wilfried are back from AFCON. Everyone is well.
"We trained this morning. Wilfried and Macca are too short for the game. They need a couple more days."
McArthur has made 11 appearances in the Premier League this season but has not featured since November due to a hamstring injury.
Vieira said: "He's really important on and off the field. He has the experience, character and he's a competitor.
"We missed him on the field and to have him back in training is good."
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