September 19, (THEWILL) – Crystal Palace, manager Roy Hodgson, will return to the dugout this weekend against Fulham after missing last Saturday’s match at Aston Villa due to illness, the club announced on Tuesday.
Hodgson was feeling unwell on the morning of the Villa match and did not travel with the team as a result. With the veteran manager absent, Palace took an early lead through Odsonne Edouard but conceded three late goals in the 3-1 defeat, including two in added time.
The 76-year-old Hodgson oversaw Palace’s training session today and is expected to be back on the touchline when the Eagles host Fulham at Selhurst Park on Saturday. Palace did not disclose details about the nature or severity of Hodgson’s illness but confirmed he was in contact with assistant coaches, Paddy McCarthy and Ray Lewington, throughout the Villa match.
Hodgson’s return will provide a boost for Palace as they look to bounce back from the difficult loss to Villa. The manager’s extensive experience and leadership will be welcomed by the players as they face a critical London derby against a Fulham side battling to avoid relegation.
With Hodgson confirmed to lead training and take charge against Fulham, Palace will be hoping his illness was only a minor setback. The club sits comfortably in mid-table but will be aiming to finish the season strongly under the veteran manager’s continued guidance.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
