Crystal Palace's Bold Move: Securing the Future of Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze

Crystal Palace's ability to retain Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise during the summer signifies their strong ambitions, says manager Roy Hodgson. Despite speculation of their potential departures, 21-year-old winger Olise has committed to a new long-term contract, deflecting interest from Chelsea.

Eze, on the other hand, will continue to stay with the club despite Manchester City and other clubs expressing interest.

During an exclusive interview with We, Hodgson expressed his joy in retaining both players at the club even after the summer transfer window.

"As a manager, it's truly ideal for us that we have successfully retained these players," he expressed. "Although Michael was on the verge of departure, we skillfully convinced him to pledge his long-term commitment to our team, and that is a truly positive development.

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Roy Hodgson is excited to see Michael Olise (L) and Eberechi Eze back in tandem again soon

"The vultures will always hover around, as it is inevitable for a club like ours with such talented players. We can expect other teams to show interest in acquiring them.

"However, it is a powerful affirmation from our club that we have successfully convinced these players that their destiny lies here. It goes to show that one doesn't always have to aspire to be part of a higher-ranked team's lineup to achieve success."

Sometimes, we find ourselves unable to alter the given scenario. Nonetheless, it is crucial that we exert every effort possible to retain our top players and create opportunities for ourselves.

Furthermore, when the time comes to sell players, it is essential to envision that the funds generated will be utilized and circulated extensively within the club. This way, we can successfully compensate for the departure of those individuals. In doing so, we establish a reputation for being a club with the capability to nurture and produce talented players.

Crystal Palace

Wolverhampton Wanderers

Sunday 3rd September 1:00pm

Kick off 2:00pm

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Olise in action for Palace

Olise appeared set to transfer to Chelsea last month, but to everyone's surprise, the club announced that he had instead renewed his contract for the long term. According to Hodgson, despite their efforts to persuade him to stay at Selhurst Park, ultimately it was the midfielder's personal choice to remain.

"We presented all our reasons to him, explaining why it would be beneficial for him to stay," Hodgson states. "We emphasized his growth and the prospect of becoming a prominent figure in the team lineup.

We addressed all the points typically discussed with a young player who is presented with an opportunity for a significant transfer. Ultimately, however, the decision rested solely with him."

'It was Olise's decision to stay'

We simply presented our desires to him, without going beyond that. He possesses great intelligence and was fully capable of making his own decision.

Olise is currently sidelined due to an injury, but he eagerly anticipates reuniting with them when he makes his comeback.

"They had a great partnership last season," Hodgson recalls. "I have fond memories of that, and by simply shutting my eyes, I can visualize the duo effortlessly troubling rival defenses."

Anticipating a repetition, we were highly motivated to retain Michael due to his immense contribution. Despite the potential financial gain we could have obtained from his departure, acquiring another player of his caliber to replicate the exceptional partnership he formed with Eze last season would have posed significant challenges.

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Eze made his England debut in the summer

Eze currently carries the creative responsibility, but he can handle the pressure well. In fact, he has been selected once again for Gareth Southgate's England squad after earning his first cap during the summer.

Hodgson explains, "Our role is to provide Ebere with a platform to showcase his football style. We aim to deliver the ball to him in positions and scenarios where he can fully utilize his talent. The rest is up to him. By accomplishing this, we can reap the benefits of his skills."

'It's a duo that can cause problems to anyone'

It is a tremendous achievement for Crystal Palace to have three players included in the England squad, alongside Marc Guehi and Sam Johnstone, and there are even more talented individuals in our club who are on the verge of national recognition.

'It's a duo that can cause problems to anyone'

Crystal Palace made a late move during the transfer window to secure a new goalkeeper who can competently challenge Sam Johnstone. As a result, Dean Henderson has joined our team from Manchester United.

Now 26 years old, Henderson is anticipated to compete with Johnstone for the top goalkeeper position.

Hodgson, commenting on his new goalkeeper, states, "He has been observing from the sidelines and this presents a valuable opportunity for him to regain momentum. Having two goalkeepers of such caliber competing to be included in the England squad is a fantastic prospect for us."

He must be extremely anxious. After a successful stint at Nottingham Forest, he unfortunately sustained an injury just before returning to Manchester United. Regrettably, he was not given adequate opportunities to showcase his abilities there.

We do not question the inclusion of competitive spirit among outfield players; this dilemma only arises with goalkeepers. While it poses a challenge for selection, it is a positive predicament to have.

'Henderson anxious to play'

Crystal Palace will be facing Wolves on Super Sunday, which will be broadcast live on We Premier League from 1pm (with kick-off at 2pm). This exciting match presents an interesting clash between the oldest manager in the Premier League, as well as the oldest in the top four divisions in England, and the second youngest manager in the top flight. Despite the vast age difference and the fact that Hodgson had already established himself as a manager for seven years before O'Neil was even born in 1983, the Crystal Palace boss believes that age will have little impact once the game begins.

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Hodgson will encounter Gary O'Neil in the opposing dugout this Sunday.

He has adeptly navigated the intense scrutiny of the Premier League. The rapid learning curve in this league allows for swift progress, and his vast experience of playing over 450 games will undoubtedly be beneficial.

Furthermore, his previous role as an assistant coach adds to his understanding of the level of competition. It is evident that he is well-prepared to transmit his knowledge and expertise to his team.

Watch the live match between Crystal Palace and Wolves on We Main Event and We Premier League, starting at 1pm on Super Sunday. The kick-off will be at 2pm.

Additionally, you can stay updated with the events at Selhurst Park by following our live blog on the We website and app. The blog includes in-game clips and free match highlights once the game is over.