Crystal Palace 'identifying replacements for Roy Hodgson'

By Andrew Delaney, Reporter | 20 January 2024

Crystal Palace are reportedly in the process of drawing up a list of potential replacements for Roy Hodgson, following their 5-0 defeat at Arsenal on Saturday afternoon.

The Crystal Palace board have reportedly begun shortlisting potential replacements for under-fire manager Roy Hodgson.

Palace were thrashed 5-0 at the Emirates Stadium by Arsenal in the Premier League in Saturday's early encounter, extending their poor recent form to just one win in 12.

That humbling defeat in North London came just days after Palace were dumped out of the FA Cup by Everton, where Hodgson was booed by the away section for taking Eberechi Eze off shortly after the hour mark.

Supporters were seemingly just as displeased at the Emirates, as two banners were unfurled stating their thoughts about the current situation at the club.

The first banner read 'wasted potential on and off the pitch, weak decisions taking us backwards' aimed at both the board and the management, before another stating 'no shared vision, no structured plan' was also spotted.

The Daily Mail claims that even though chairman Steve Parish wants Hodgson to see out his contract until the end of the season, his hand may be forced, and some names are already being suggested.

Steve Cooper and Julen Lopetegui are among the favourites, while Kieran McKenna and Bo Svensson are also said to be in contention of taking over at Selhurst Park.

Hodgson said he believes that the Palace fans have every right to protest how they see fit, but he still believes that he has the full backing of the board.

Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson pictured on October 7, 2023 © Reuters

"All I would say is they are totally entitled to their opinion in that respect. I do understand their frustration, even anger and disappointment that things haven't gotten better." Hodgson said post-match.

"The bottom line is if we are going to go forward and avoid relegation and do well, we need these fans with us. Hopefully we can keep them on board and the best way to do that is by winning football matches and playing better than today.

"These days, staying in the Premier League is so important, relegation is such a fear for everybody. When a team isn't doing as well as it should be doing, someone has to be held responsible and that's always the manager." Hodgson stated.

While confident of still having the support of the board, Hodgson avoided speculation on his future when questioned by the press.

"That's a question for them [the board]. If you are asking me if I have ever felt a lack of support from above, then it is no I haven't."

Palace's FA Cup exit means that they are not in action for another 10 days until they host Sheffield United at Selhurst Park, sitting just five points above the relegation zone at present.