- Roy Hodgson voices his respect for Mikel Arteta and admiration for Arsenal’s performance last season.
- Michael Olise remains at Crystal Palace, declining a move to Chelsea, much to Hodgson’s delight.
- Arsenal kickstarted the season with notable victories against Manchester City in the Community Shield and Nottingham Forest.
Roy Hodgson’s heartfelt appreciation for Mikel Arteta
Ahead of Crystal Palace’s imminent encounter with Arsenal, Roy Hodgson has shared his admiration for Mikel Arteta’s managerial prowess.
Recalling the North London side’s near title challenge last season, Hodgson revealed his compassion for the Gunners after they narrowly missed out.
Hodgson commented, “I have great admiration for the job he’s done at Arsenal. They were outstanding last season. It must have been gut-wrenching to get so close and be overtaken by the sheer might of Manchester City.”
He anticipates a challenging game against Arsenal, acknowledging their formidable start to the season.
The veteran manager further added, “Arsenal always seem to do well against us. They find a way of getting a winning goal.”
Arsenal’s renewed vigour post last season’s heartbreak
Last season, Arsenal provided a stiff competition to Manchester City in the race for the Premier League title.
Their challenge, however, waned towards the season’s conclusion.
Despite their spirited seven-match winning streak between February and April, Arsenal managed only 12 points from their last nine fixtures.
Yet, the Gunners have returned with renewed determination this season.
They celebrated an early triumph against Manchester City in the Community Shield, followed by a 2-1 victory against Nottingham Forest during the season’s opener.
Michael Olise’s crucial decision bolsters Crystal Palace
While Arsenal’s resurgence continues to grab headlines, Palace had their share of the spotlight too.
Michael Olise, a crucial player for Palace, has opted to extend his contract with the club.
This decision comes after Chelsea, with a clear intent to sign him, activated his £35million release clause.
Describing the impact of this decision, Hodgson stated, “Everyone at the club and all our fans will be boosted by the knowledge that one of these very talented young players [Olise] is still going to play for the club.”
The France Under-21 winger’s choice to sign a fresh four-year deal with the Eagles, despite Chelsea’s evident interest, showcases his commitment to Hodgson’s vision.
Palace’s promising start to the season
Crystal Palace started their league campaign on a positive note, securing a 1-0 victory against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.
Despite the departure of club icon Wilfried Zaha to Galatasaray, Hodgson’s side showed they can compete without him.
However, the team will miss Michael Olise in the coming matches due to a hamstring injury.
Hodgson remains optimistic, highlighting his team’s promising start and emphasising the morale boost Olise’s decision brings.
