Roy Hodgson said he was targeting “a top-half finish” after Crystal Palace officially confirmed he is staying on as manager for the 2023-24 campaign.
Hodgson, 75, believes the Eagles have “a fabulous group of players” and must be “ambitious” to get the best out of them.
Former England manager Hodgson returned to the club last March after Palace sacked Patrick Vieira with a relegation battle appearing to be looming.
The side were just three points above the relegation zone but Hodgson had an immediate impact, winning his first three games in charge after Palace hadn’t had a victory in their previous twelve league games.
Palace were ultimately comfortable for the rest of the campaign as they finished eleventh, one place above Chelsea.
Hodgson has some issues to deal with during pre-season. Wilfried Zaha is out of contract and has been linked with a move away, most recently to Saudi Arabia. Palace are also set to be without Michael Olise for the start of the season after he tore his hamstring on international duty with France under-21s.
Hodgson got the best out of young players such as Olise and Eberechi Eze, the latter who received a first England call-up and made his debut last month.
“I know what a fantastic squad we have here,” he added. “t’s a great blend of youth and potential, alongside experienced players with Premier League and international pedigree.
“I have spoken with the chairman [Steve Parish] at length and we agreed that we must be ambitious in getting the most out of such talent.
“As such, we have set ourselves the target of a top-half finish, which we believe is eminently achievable with such a fabulous group of players and the most magnificent supporters who get behind the team, week-in, week-out.”
