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Crystal Palace fans should be disappointed by Roy Hodgson’s pessimistic transfer aspirations
Following Crystal Palace’s narrow 1-0 FA Cup victory over Grimsby on Saturday, the Eagles’ need for a striker was clearly apparent.
The Premier League club registered more than 30 total shots, yet lacked a critical cutting edge in front of goal.
After the match, Roy Hodgson acknowledged the need for a new striker, but his pessimistic comments about Palace’s transfer business will surely disappoint the club’s supporters.
In comments reported by , the manager noted that January was a notoriously difficult time to sign players.
“Teams are not that anxious to let their players go,” Hodgson said. “So you’re looking for a rare pearl. Someone who is good enough and will make us better but at the same time for some reason is being released by his club.”
Although some may argue Hodgson’s view is a pragmatic and realistic approach to the transfer window, one must recognise that Crystal Palace is an established Premier League club that should be able to attract top talents.
The Eagles may not have the financial resources that other top flight sides possess, but the club must be aiming higher with regards to its transfer activity and actively aim to sign players who are excelling — not just those who are on the selling block.
Despite his dose of realism, Roy Hodgson’s January transfer views are overly pragmatic and will do little to appease Crystal Palace fans who are pushing for a new goal-scorer.