Hodgson short of big stars

I backed them, and now now senior players must repay my trust in them, says Hammers boss Bilic

ROY HODGSON claims he was handed a harsh lesson this week – and admits the January transfer window is key to Crystal Palace’s survival hopes.

The Palace boss is convinced his first-choice line-up is moving in the right direction after the shock defeat of Chelsea earlier this month.

But Hodgson rang the changes for the midweek League Cup trip to Championship Bristol City and was unimpressed as his fringe players lost 4-1.

He will revert to Plan A as West Ham visit Selhurst Park today for a clash that already bears the hallmark of a relegation six-pointer.

Hodgson said: “We have got a group of players who will be good enough to keep us in the league if we can keep performing.

“But to really be sure that we will give ourselves a chance, we need reinforcements because the squad doesn’t go down anywhere near far enough to give me the type of options I would like.

“The January transfer window will be important as it will be for many.”

SLAVEN BILIC has backed his West Ham “senators” to lead the club clear of the drop zone and repay his faith in them.

SENIOR SERVICE Slaven Bilic will rely on tried and trusted pros such as skipper Mark Noble (right, throwing his shirt to Hammers fans after the win against Spurs)