HODGSON .. AND ON
Hodgson signs a new deal at Palace.. but even at 71 he’s excited about the future
ROY HODGSON signed a new two year contract with Crystal Palace and then predicted exciting times ahead.
Hodgson, who turned 71 on Thursday, takes his Eagles to Fulham this afternoon believing the team are equipped to make a real impact this season.
“I want to give our fans less heartache, and do away with the constant worry that this is their last season in the Premiership,” he said.
Palace’s first seven games of last season brought them neither a point nor a goal, with Frank de Boer sacked as manager shortly afterwards.
Hodgson added: “We don’t need that again.
“It seemed we were in a hopeless position, so we won’t fall into that trap again.
“There’s no reason why we can’t start where we finished off last season when we came eleventh in the table.
“After the top six clubs we could be among the best of the rest of the remaining 14.
“But who can tell. It will be very important to start well, but, to be a winner, there has to be a loser.
“I’m pleased and happy the club believe I’m the right person to lead Palace forward.
“As for being 71, I don’t feel any different or less confident of doing my job.
“I’ve not the slightest doubt about that, the desire is still there.” Hodgson is also ready to go back to Chelsea to try to sign Ruben LoftusCheek on loan again. The England midfielder made a big impression at Selhurst Park last term.
Hodgson said: “If Chelsea decide they can’t find a place in their side for Loftus-Cheek I will definitely ask them if we can have him back on loan.”
The Palace boss is also ready to help relieve some of the responsibility carried by star striker Wilf Zaha, who decided to stay at the Eagles when Chelsea and Tottenham wanted him.
“There’s never been any influence from us to help Wilf make up his mind about moving,” added Hodgson. “But there is a lot of pressure on him because of who he is, and he’s only human.”
Hodgson had two and a half successful years in charge of Fulham.
He said: “I don’t live in the past, but I have to admit there were few days when I left the training ground unhappy.”