Crystal Palace has appointed Roy Hodgson as their new manager, replacing Patrick Vieira, who was sacked after the club failed to win a game since December. Hodgson, who will turn 76 in August, is now the oldest manager in Premier League history and returns for his second stint as Palace boss after leaving the club two years ago. His task this time around will be to help the Eagles retain their Premier League status, with the team currently sitting just three points above the relegation zone.
Hodgson resigned from his role as Palace manager in May 2021, claiming that he was going to step back from full-time management in the Premier League and spend more time with his family. Speaking when his departure was announced, Hodgson said that after more than 45 years of coaching, he had decided that the time was right for him to step away from the rigours of top-flight Premier League football. He added that he had had so much support from his wife and family throughout his career and that he had been contemplating this decision for some time.
Hodgson has taken charge of 162 games in total as Palace manager, with a win percentage of 33.3% in those matches. He won 54, drew 33, and lost 70. The 75-year-old first joined the club in September 2017 and was manager for four years in total, leading his side to safety and a midtable finish in all of those seasons.
Despite his age, Hodgson’s return to management was not unexpected, given his hints at the possibility of him not coming back to management in the Premier League. It is a privilege for him to be asked to return to the club, which has always meant so much to him, and to be given the important task of turning the team’s fortunes around. He said that their sole objective now is to start winning matches and to get the points necessary to ensure their Premier League status. Crystal Palace is known for its fighting spirit, and he has no doubt that all their supporters will fight with them.
In conclusion, Hodgson’s appointment as Crystal Palace’s new manager is a significant move for the club as they seek to avoid relegation from the Premier League. His experience and track record make him an ideal candidate for the job, and his return to management will undoubtedly be welcomed by fans of the club. With Hodgson at the helm, Palace will be hoping to turn their fortunes around and secure their place in the top-flight for another season.