Roy Hodgson ‘close to signing new deal to remain Crystal Palace manager for another season’

Roy Hodgson is close to signing a new deal to stay on as Crystal Palace manager, according to a new report.

Hodgson stepped in to take the helm at Selhurst Park following the firing of Patrick Vieira, and the 75-year-old has helped to steer the south London club away from the danger zone and into the safety of mid-table.

And while the initial deal was only to see out this season, it is thought that Hodgson’s success could mean he remains in charge in August, when he will turn 76.

The Sun report that Palace chairman Steve Parish is considering handing Hodgson a one-year contract. As the country’s oldest top-flight manager already, he would just be extending his own record with a longer stay at Crystal Palace.

The former England manager has reportedly wanted to make it clear that he does not consider himself to be ‘retired’, and would be willing to keep managing the club. 

Chairman Steve Parish is considering the move after Hodgson guided the Eagles to safety

Parish was reportedly impressed with Eberechi Eze’s improvement under Hodgson’s guidance

Parish is said to be impressed by Eberechi Eze’s improvement under the veteran boss, while Hodgson’s working relationship with Wilfried Zaha could encourage their talisman to remain at Selhurst Park despite the end of his current contract.

Hodgson managed Crystal Palace between 2017 and 2021 before leaving by mutual consent. He was briefly Watford boss last year, before taking up the helm with the Eagles again in March after Vieira’s exit. 

Crystal Palace, currently in 12th place in the Premier League, have remaining fixtures against Fulham and Nottingham Forest this season.