Crystal Palace defender Paddy McCarthy could be back in action for the reserves on Thursday if he gets the all clear from his specialist tonight.

The Irishman has been out of action since October after aggravating an old shoulder injury and went back under the knife last week to have pins in the joint removed.

"He has been doing some training this week and had no reaction so we are hoping we can have him back soon," said Hart.

"He is seeing the specialist on Tuesday night and if he gets the all clear we will all be delighted.

"He has not played for a long time though so we will try and get him in the reserves on Thursday and go from there."