Crystal Palace's Strategic Move: Securing Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze Sends a Powerful Message - Roy Hodgson Reveals All

Crystal Palace's ability to retain Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise this summer showcases their determination to achieve their goals, says manager Roy Hodgson. Despite speculation of potential departures, 21-year-old winger Olise has committed to a new extended contract, warding off attention from Chelsea.

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

Speaking exclusively to We, Hodgson expressed his joy in retaining both players beyond the conclusion of the summer transfer window.

"It's great as a manager to see that we've successfully retained these players," he expressed. "Michael was on the verge of leaving, but we were able to convince him to stay for the long run, and that is definitely a positive development.

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

"We can never prevent the vultures from hovering. As a club of our caliber with players like ours, we will always attract interest from other teams.

"However, it is a powerful declaration by the club that we have successfully convinced these players that their future lies with us. One doesn't constantly need to desire a spot in the squad of a higher-ranked team within the league.

At times, the scenario remains unalterable, yet it is essential for us to maximize our efforts in retaining our top players and giving ourselves a shot.

Furthermore, when we inevitably sell players, we must trust that the resulting finances will be utilized effectively within the club to fill the void left by their departure. This will establish our reputation as a club capable of nurturing and producing 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 seemed on the brink of moving to Chelsea last month, but to everyone's surprise, the club announced that he had committed to a new long-term contract. Hodgson acknowledges that despite their efforts to persuade him to stay at Selhurst Park, it was ultimately the midfielder's personal choice to remain.

"We presented all our persuasions to him, explaining why staying would be highly advantageous," Hodgson states. "Whether it pertains to his growth or his guaranteed presence on the teamsheet.

"We expressed all the sentiments that one would convey to a promising young player who possesses the opportunity for a significant transition. However, ultimately, the decision rested solely with him. He was the one who made the final call.

'It was Olise's decision to stay'

We simply presented our desires to him and did not go beyond that. He is a bright young man who was fully capable of making his own decision.

Olise is currently sidelined due to injury, yet he eagerly anticipates reuniting with them once he recovers.

"They were a formidable duo last season," Hodgson reminisces. "I have fond recollections of that, and if I envision it closely, I can summon the mental images of those two wreaking havoc on rival defenses."

"I anticipate its recurrence, which is precisely why we were exceedingly eager to retain Michael. Even with the financial gains we could have derived from him, procuring a player of his caliber to replicate the remarkable synergy he and Eze exhibited last season would have posed a substantial challenge."

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Eze made his England debut in the summer

Eze currently carries the creative responsibility, but he is capable of handling the pressure. In fact, he has been selected once again to join Gareth Southgate's England squad after earning his first cap during the summer.

Hodgson states, "Our job is to provide Ebere with the opportunity to showcase his football skills. By delivering the ball to him in specific areas and situations, we can allow his talent to shine. The rest is up to him. If we accomplish this, we can reap the benefits."

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

Palace's acquisition of Dean Henderson from Manchester United during the window provided a late addition to challenge Sam Johnstone in goal, solidifying their squad further.

At 26 years old, Henderson is anticipated to challenge Johnstone for the top goalkeeper position.

Hodgson sees this as a valuable opportunity for Henderson, who has been watching from the sidelines, to regain momentum. Having two exceptional goalkeepers vying for a spot in the England squad is advantageous for our team.

"He must be extremely eager. After having a remarkable run at Nottingham Forest, he unfortunately sustained an injury prior to returning to Manchester United. He was not given ample opportunity to showcase his abilities there.

"We never doubt the presence of competition among outfield players; it is only commonly observed among goalkeepers. While it may pose a challenge in terms of selection, it is a positive challenge to face."

'Henderson anxious to play'

Crystal Palace will be facing Wolves on Super Sunday, which will be broadcasted live on We Premier League from 1pm (kick-off 2pm). This highly anticipated match showcases an intriguing battle between the oldest manager in the Premier League, as well as the oldest across all four divisions in England, and the second youngest manager in the top flight. Despite the significant experience gap, Hodgson, who had already enjoyed a seven-year managerial career before Gary O'Neil was born in 1983, remains confident that age will have little impact once the game begins.

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Hodgson and Gary O'Neil will face each other in the opposing dugouts on Sunday. "I don't see him as a newcomer in any way," Hodgson states. "We are all in the same situation, and I am preparing to play his team just like he will be preparing to play mine."

He has handled the scrutiny of the Premier League admirably. The rapid learning potential of this league, along with his vast experience of playing over 450 games, will undoubtedly aid him.

Furthermore, his successful stint as an assistant proves that he hasn't been thrust into this role without understanding the level. It is evident that he is more than capable of imparting this knowledge to his players.

Don't miss the live broadcast of the Crystal Palace vs Wolves match on We Main Event and We Premier League starting at 1pm on Super Sunday. The game will kick-off at 2pm.

Stay updated with the action at Selhurst Park through our live blog on the We website and app. The blog includes in-game clips and free match highlights available after the final whistle.