CRYSTAL PALACE have reportedly placed Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira on their shortlist to succeed Roy Hodgson if the veteran manager leaves Selhurst Park this summer.
The Athletic claims doubts are growing over Hodgson’s future with the Eagles as he nears the end of his contract.
The former England boss, 73, has guided Palace to some impressive finishes since joining them in 2017.
And they should easily avoid relegation again this season, sitting 11 points clear of the drop zone with two games in hand over 18th-place Fulham.
Palace now have a big decision to make as the season nears its end.
And should they opt against handing Hodgson a new contract, it’s believed Gunners icon Vieira has worked his way onto the managerial shortlist.
Vieira, 44, won three Premier League titles and four FA Cups during a nine-year stay in north London.
Vieira also played for the likes of AC Milan, Juventus, Inter Milan and Man City in a glittering club career.
And his 107 caps for France resulted in 1998 World Cup glory, as well as a famous win at the Euros in 2000.
Vieira, who retired from playing in 2011, moved into management in 2016 with New York City.
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And he landed his first European football gig with French side Nice in 2018 before being axed in December.
Despite his short dugout experience, Vieira is now said to be a leading candidate for the Palace job should Hodgson be shown the door.
But there are other names under consideration too, including ex-Chelsea boss Frank Lampard, former Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe and Burnley gaffer Sean Dyche.
Yet there is still every chance Hodgson will be allowed to continue on a new contract after another good campaign in the top flight.
And a decision could even be made before the final day of the season.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
