PARTY-POOPER ROY HOPING TO BRING JURGEN BACK TO EARTH

ROY HODGSON is out to spoil the party for new FIFA coach of the year Jurgen Klopp.

The Crystal Palace boss will congratulate his opposite number on his prestigious award before their teams clash.

But after the warm words, Hodgson hopes to bring the German back down to earth. He said: “I’ll congratulate Jurgen and tell him how pleased I am.

“It’s a very prestigious award because you’re competing against lots of top-class coaches from all over the world.

“It’s the second time he’s won it, which is even more commendable. It’s hard enough to get nominated so to win it twice, like he has, is incredible. But we’ll try to do our best to spoil any party he’s got planned.”

Palace will look to make it four games unbeaten as Hodgson goes up against his former club, where he endured an ill-fated six-month reign in 2010. The 73-year-old (above with Klopp) added: “Liverpool are still the team to beat because they’re top of the table, but it’s going to be tougher this season than when they swept all before them.

“The teams around them are getting more powerful. Jurgen has got a tough job on his hands to win the title in consecutive seasons, but he’s made a good start.”

Hodgson also paid tribute to Ebere Eze for taking the Premier League by storm.

The 22-year-old has adapted effortlessly to the step up following a £19.5million summer move from QPR. Hodgson said: “You never know exactly how long it will take a player to get his feet under the table at a new club, but he’s proved he can raise his game to the next level.

“We signed him because we believe in him so we’re pleased it’s gone so well, so early. He’s going to be a big player for this club for years to come.”