The Crystal Palace fans in the Transfer Tavern are feeling very concerned at present…
A poor start to the season has left them fighting off relegation, and with Frank De Boer out of the door, it’s clear that it’s going to be a few tough few weeks for the Eagles.
Fortunately, they have moved quickly to tie up a replacement in Roy Hodgson, formerly of the England national team, and that has helped to calm fears in the Transfer Tavern.
Sure, he isn’t as exciting as De Boer or as highly-regarded, but he has a solid resume behind him and he should be well placed to help the team avoid relegation.
Even Hodgson, though, seemingly doesn’t think that it will be an easy feat – and that would explain why he, according to the Daily Star, made some big demands before signing for the club.
The Daily Star reports that Hodgson has been handed a £40 million war chest by Steve Parish ahead of the January transfer window, and what’s more, he’ll also be given free reign to reinvest whatever money he makes from prospective sales during the window too.
Collectively, that should offer the 70-year-old a lot of room to conduct some major deals in January, though any targets are likely to depend on where the Eagles are sat at that point.
Between then and now, he has a big battle on his hands to prevent what is beginning to look like an inevitability in relegation.
Landlord’s Verdict
It’s unclear whether De Boer just wasn’t good enough or whether the players themselves aren’t good enough, but what is obvious is that Hodgson will bring Crystal Palace back to basics.
He’ll look to grind out wins as soon as possible in an effort to turn the ship around, but he won’t be able to do it without some help.
A few big names in January could be the difference between a hard-fought battle or relatively comfortable safety – and Steve Parish must recognise that. Whatever happens, it’s going to be a tough test for Hodgson.
Crystal Palace fans – thoughts?
Let us know below!
