Crystal Palace have confirmed Roy Hodgson is staying on as their manager next season.
The 75-year-old has agreed a 12-month contract at Selhurst Park following talks with Palace chairman Steve Parish over the summer.
Hodgson did a brilliant job after returning to Palace to replace Patrick Vieira in March and guided the Eagles comfortably to safety with 18 points from his 10 games in charge.
Palace had initially viewed him as a stop-gap solution before appointing a new manager this summer, but his impact has convinced Parish to stick with him.
Hodgson, who turns 76 in August, said: “I am immensely pleased and proud to be extending my time at Crystal Palace, and I would like to thank the chairman and sporting director for their continued faith in me.
“I know what a fantastic squad we have here. It’s a great blend of youth and potential, alongside experienced players with Premier League and international pedigree.
“I have spoken with the chairman at length and we agreed that we must be ambitious in getting the most out of such talent. As such, we have set ourselves the target of a top-half finish, which we believe is eminently achievable with such a fabulous group of players and the most magnificent supporters who get behind the team, week in, week out.”
Paddy McCarthy will be Hodgson’s assistant with Ray Lewington and Dean Kiely also confirmed as part of his backroom staff.
Chairman Steve Parish said: “Roy’s record as manager speaks for itself. His return earlier this year along with Ray Lewington and assisted ably by Paddy McCarthy produced a fantastic return both in results and producing some stylish performances, helping us climb the table and get international recognition for our players.
“Appointing Roy for another season will enable him and the squad to hit the ground running for a full pre-season and continue the magnificent momentum that has built up since his return.”
