Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson deflected questions about his job security following the team’s crushing 5-0 defeat at Arsenal, suggesting that any decision about his future lies with the club’s decision-makers. The loss, which included late goals from substitute Gabriel Martinelli, as well as earlier strikes from Gabriel, Leandro Trossard, and a Dean Henderson own goal, has led to renewed scrutiny of Hodgson’s position.
Hodgson acknowledged the fans’ frustration, particularly after seeing banners criticizing the club’s direction and decision-making. When asked if he felt he still had the support of the club’s board, Hodgson stated that he had never felt a lack of support from them but admitted that questions about his future would be for them to answer.
The defeat to Arsenal comes on the heels of an FA Cup replay loss to Everton, in which Hodgson controversially substituted key player Eberechi Eze. Hodgson took responsibility for the defeat, especially for the late goals, admitting that substituting some of his starters for younger players may have been a mistake against a dominant Arsenal side.
Former Chelsea and Brighton manager Graham Potter, who was spotted in the stands during the match, has been linked with the Palace job if the club decides to make a managerial change. Darren Bent, speaking on *Matchday Live Extra* on Optus Sport, suggested that Crystal Palace needs to move on from Hodgson and show ambition by appointing a new, up-and-coming manager. Bent emphasized that if the club decides to bring in a new manager, they should commit to that decision rather than reverting to Hodgson, a cycle that has characterized the club’s recent history.
Hodgson, a highly respected figure in football, faces increasing pressure to turn around the club’s fortunes, with fans and pundits alike questioning whether a change in leadership is necessary for Crystal Palace to progress.
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