Crystal Palace have decided to continue with Roy Hodgson as their head coach for the upcoming season.
The manager, who turns 76 next month, is already the oldest in Premier League history and will continue to extend the record
Hodgson is reportedly popular with crucial first-team stars, and they wanted him to stay after his interim tenure last season.
The Englishman took over the Eagles while on a 12-game winless run under Patrick Vieira. They were in danger of dropping into a relegation battle.
However, Hodgson took charge on a short-term contract, and the team secured 18 points during his ten games. They finished comfortably in the 11th position in the Premier League.
Under Hodgson’s leadership, they won five, drew three and suffered only two defeats while playing delightful football.
The manager will continue his second stint with the club after managing them for nearly four years between September 2017 and May 2021.
Hodgson has managed 172 games at Palace. No coach in the club’s history has been in charge for more matches. Paddy McCarthy will continue as his assistant manager.
Ray Lewington will remain part of the coaching staff, while Dean Kiely is the goalkeeper coach.
Hodgson said (via Palace’s official website): “I am immensely pleased and proud to be extending my time at Crystal Palace, and I would like to thank the Chairman and Sporting Director for their continued faith in me.
“I know what a fantastic squad we have here. It’s a great blend of youth and potential alongside experienced players with Premier League and international pedigree.
“I have spoken with the Chairman at length, and we agreed that we must be ambitious in getting the most out of such talent.
“As such, we have set ourselves the target of a top-half finish, which we believe is eminently achievable with such a fabulous group of players and the most magnificent supporters who get behind the team, week in, week out.”
