Roy Hodgson has labelled Arsenal as ‘classy’ in his final press conference as Crystal Palace manager.
In midweek, the ex-England boss took charge of his final home game at Selhurst Park and stated that the guard of honour, by both Palace and especially Arsenal, ‘took me by surprise’.
At the age of 73, and after over 40 years in management, this may well be the last bow in Hodgson’s career in football.
And the Englishman made his feelings clear towards Arsenal for their gesture, which he is ‘thankful’ and ‘grateful’ for.
“It was great for me, the guard of honour,” said Hodgson. “That really took me by surprise.
“I am grateful and thankful that Arsenal agreed to do that. It was really strong and classy of them.
“But when the game started then there wasn’t any suggestion that it wasn’t 100% Premier League football. We both needed to win and we both needed the points.”
Well, Anfield will be the final bow for Hodgson and what a stadium to say his goodbyes to football.
Whilst Palace don’t have anything to play for, his former club, Liverpool, are hoping for a top-four finish.
In years gone by, Palace have been known to spoil Liverpool parties – that 3-3 comeback and beating Liverpool at Anfield in what was Steven Gerrard’s final game at Anfield.
Now, it would be something for Palace to potentially prevent Liverpool from securing Champions League football for next season after an injury-hit campaign.
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