Roy Hodgson steps down as Crystal Palace manager

Crystal Palace have confirmed that Roy Hodgson has stepped down as their first-team manager, just hours before their Premier League clash with Everton

The 76 year old took charge of 200 games across six seasons for the South London side.

Hodgson, who had been hospitalised after being taken ill during a training session last Thursday, is now "out of hospital and doing well" according to the club.

Hodgson's right-hand man Ray Lewington and assistant manager Paddy McCarthy will lead the team tonight at Goodison Park, with the Eagles just five points clear of their opponents who are in the relegation zone.

Various reports have suggested that Oliver Glasner, who was most recently manager of German side Eintracht Frankfurt, will take over.

In a statement posted on Crystal Palace's website, Roy Hodgson said: "“This club is very special and means so much to me and has played a big part in my footballing life. I have fully enjoyed my time here across six seasons, as it has given me the chance to work with top class players and staff doing what I love every day.

“However, I understand, given recent circumstances, it may be prudent at this time for the club to plan ahead, and therefore I have taken the decision to step aside so that the club can bring forward their plans for a new manager, as intended for this summer.

“I would like to thank Steve Parish and his American partners for their support, along with my coaching staff and backroom team who have helped me so much along the way. In particular, a huge thank you to my long-term friend and assistant, Ray Lewington; coaches Dean Kiely and Paddy McCarthy; plus the excellent sports science, video analysis and medical departments.

“My thanks and respect also to the current squad of players who have been a pleasure to work with - they are a credit to the club and themselves. I am certain that our fans will continue to give their full support to the team for the remainder of this season and beyond.

“I am confident that the season will finish well and I wish the team every success in the weeks, months and seasons to come.”

Hodgson has had two terms as Crystal Palace manager, initially taking over from Frank De Boer in September 2017.

He then left the club in 2021, and after a short spell at Watford, returned to the Eagles in March 2023, taking over from Patrick Vieira.

The 76 year old has had a long career across Europe, having managed 22 teams across eight countries. Some of his career highlights include taking fellow London side Fulham to the Europa League final in 2010, and taking palace to a 49 points finish in the 2018-2019, equalling their best ever total in a Premier League campaign.

He has also held some of the most prestigious managerial positions in football - taking over from Rafael Benitez in 2010 as Liverpool manager, and managing England from 2012 until 2016.

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