Crystal Palace confirm Roy Hodgson will step down at the end of the season

Crystal Palace have confirmed that Roy Hodgson will be leaving the club at the end of the season, with his final match in charge coming against his former employers Liverpool at Anfield.

The 73-year-old has said he feels the time is right to step away from ‘the rigours of top-flight Premier League football’ and bring to an end his ‘responsibilities of being a full-time manager.’

Uncertainty had been hanging over the head of Hodgson, whose deal was winding down and talks had not taken place regarding an extension.

Now, Palace have released an official statement in which they have confirmed the former England boss will be moving on.

Crystal Palace confirmed Roy Hodgson will step down as manager at the end of the season

Commenting on his impending departure, Hodgson said: ‘After more than 45 years of coaching I have decided that the time is right for me to step away from the rigours of top-flight Premier League football, so our final two matches will be my last ones as manager of Crystal Palace.

‘It’s been a particularly rewarding period of my football life and career to have been able to spend these last four seasons with Palace. 

‘I feel now that at the end of another successful season, in which we have secured our Premier League status, the moment is right for me to step down from my responsibilities of being a full-time manager.

‘I have had so much support from my wife and family throughout my career and I have been contemplating this decision for some time, and now I believe the time is right to consider them and to see what the future holds for me.

‘I have really enjoyed my time at Palace, I have been privileged to work with an outstanding group of professional and dedicated players, most of whom have been with me throughout the four years. 

‘A manager is only as good as the players who perform on the pitch. I have been fortunate that those in my charge have certainly given me that and I thank them for it.

‘I am sure I speak for all the players, my coaching staff and backroom team, when I say I am proud of the work we have done together to retain our Premier League status during this time.’

Palace chairman Steve Parish has paid tribute to veteran boss Hodgson on social media

Palace chairman Steve Parish quickly issued a statement of his own for Hodgson, labelling the veteran boss a ‘magnificent human.’

Parish wrote: ‘It has been an absolute privilege and pleasure to work alongside Roy, who is both a magnificent human and an outstanding football manager. 

‘Not a week went by where I didn’t learn something from him. I’m delighted we will be able to give him the send he deserves tomorrow.’