Crystal Palace Manager Under Fire as Relegation Fears Grow

Crystal Palace manager, Roy Hodgson, faced mounting pressure as his team suffered a resounding defeat that left them on the verge of a relegation battle. Dissatisfied Crystal Palace fans expressed their anger through banners criticizing the club’s direction during the match. Meanwhile, the presence of Graham Potter in the stands raised speculation about potential alternatives.

In response, Hodgson acknowledged the fans’ frustration and disappointment, stating that he understood their anger and the need for improvement. He emphasized the importance of winning matches and playing better to keep the fans on board. The injuries, particularly to key player Michael Olise, have significantly impacted the team’s options along with Jordan Ayew‘s absence due to the Africa Cup of Nations with Ghana.

Crystal Palace’s struggle continues with only one win in their last 12 games, raising concerns about the long-term prospects of the team. Currently sitting five points clear of the relegation zone, but with more games played than their rivals, there is a sense of urgency to reverse the team’s fortunes. When asked about his board’s support, Hodgson implied that it was a question for them.

For Mikel Arteta‘s Arsenal, the match against Crystal Palace brought a different story. With Gabriel Magalhães‘s early goal in the 11th minute, Arsenal secured a comfortable victory that propelled them to third place in the league. Arsenal’s success has been attributed to their proficiency in set-pieces, demonstrated by their position at the top of the charts for scoring goals from corners.

Mikel Arteta expressed his satisfaction with a clean sheet, something Arsenal has been lacking, and the team’s ability to share the goals more evenly. Arsenal’s aim is to approach the second part of the season with aggression and motivation. However, concerns arose as both Declan Rice and Gabriel were substituted in the second half due to discomfort, with Arteta prioritizing their well-being over taking unnecessary risks in a winning position.