Crystal Palace Interested in Steve Cooper as Manager with Gareth Southgate as a Potential Option
Crystal Palace is currently facing a managerial dilemma, with uncertainty surrounding the future of current manager Roy Hodgson. Despite backing from fans and chairman Steve Parish, Hodgson’s position could become untenable if the team fails to secure a victory against Chelsea on Monday.
Hoping to avoid a short-term solution, Crystal Palace is considering various candidates for the managerial position. One potential option is Steve Cooper, who is currently available after leaving Nottingham Forest. However, Cooper has been overlooked in the past, so the club might be hesitant to appoint him immediately. They may prefer to wait until the summer when other candidates, such as Portuguese coach Paulo Fonseca at Lille, become available.
Another intriguing possibility is Gareth Southgate, the current England national team manager. While this option seems unlikely, there is a chance that Crystal Palace could make a move for him after the conclusion of England’s Euro 2024 campaign. Southgate’s experience and success with the national team could make him an attractive choice for the club.
Crystal Palace’s recent struggles have highlighted the need for a change in management. The team has only won two of their last 14 games in all competitions and sits just five points above the relegation zone. Fans’ anger towards the team has made this period particularly challenging for Hodgson. He acknowledges that winning games will be difficult if the fans continue to turn against the team.
Hodgson has expressed his appreciation for the players’ efforts in training and their determination to overcome the current situation. However, the team’s attacking options have been limited due to injuries, with Michael Olise out for two months and Eberechi Eze sidelined for a few weeks. Crystal Palace attempted to sign a forward during the January transfer window but was unsuccessful.
In conclusion, Crystal Palace is actively exploring potential managerial options to address their current struggles. While Steve Cooper and Paulo Fonseca are among the candidates being considered, the possibility of appointing Gareth Southgate after the Euros remains an intriguing long-shot. The team hopes to find a solution that will bring about positive change and secure their position in the Premier League.