A worthy farewell for Oliver Glasner’s predecessor is a priority

In the end, things turned out differently than planned: Oliver Glasner was actually supposed to make his Premier League debut at Crystal Palace today in the game against Everton. However, the big name of his predecessor Roy Hodgson stands in the way of this plan. Even on Sunday, the coaching change had not yet been announced as official.

• Also read: Why Oliver Glasner is such a perfect fit for Crystal Palace [OÖNplus]

From the club’s point of view, it is above all out of respect to wait until Tuesday before handing over – and to give the 76-year-old Hodgson the farewell that he deserves given his status. It is important to know that Hodgson was appointed “Commander of the British Kingdom” by Prince William two years ago – the third highest order that the British Empire has to award.

Last year, Hodgson – who led England’s national team to the European Championships in France as team boss in 2016 – was brought back from football retirement by Crystal Palace and was able to lead the team to stay in the league thanks to his personality. In the media, it was still seen as a mistake to start the current season with Hodgson. That’s why the ripcord was pulled – before the matter got a little out of control with the coach’s collapse on Thursday. Firing him immediately after he collapsed in front of the players during training on Thursday and had to be taken to hospital would have been too much. Hodgson is now fit again – and wants to be in the stadium today. As head coach, he will probably no longer be on the sidelines. Oliver Glasner remains in the stands for the time being. Like on Saturday when he was seen watching Tottenham Hotspur’s game against Wolverhampton.

Glasner’s advocates at Crystal Palace are influential. According to British media reports, club boss Steve Parish was seen at a “secret meeting” with Glasner in a London hotel on Friday.

Crystal Palace instead of Lyon

Glasner has known the American John Textor, who owns 40 percent of Crystal Palace’s shares, for a long time. Of the many rumors, the one surrounding the top French club Olympique Lyon was actually true. The French effort was great. The club is owned by Crystal Palace co-owner John Textor. (haba)