This archive report was first published on 13 May 2020.
Published on May 13, 2020, Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson has expressed his readiness to return to work in the Premier League, despite being in the vulnerable age group due to the coronavirus crisis.
At 72, Hodgson is the oldest manager in Premier League history, potentially putting him at risk if he contracts the virus. However, he has stated that he has no fears about getting back to work if the Premier League sticks to their plan to let clubs start training next week.
"Yes. No concerns. Age is age. It's how you feel really. Your age doesn't necessarily relate to your fitness or how you're feeling, or your capacity to do a job," Hodgson told beIN SPORTS.
During the enforced break since the Premier League was suspended in March, Hodgson has used the time to work on his fitness. "So I have no qualms whatsoever," he said. "When I'm called back to work I shall be very happy to go back to work."
Several Premier League players have expressed concern about putting themselves and their families at risk. However, Hodgson has stated that he and Palace chairman Steve Parish would not have a problem if any of his players did not want to return to work before they felt completely safe.
"This is going to be a matter for the individual and a matter for the club at the end of the day," Hodgson said. "I would be very surprised, knowing my club and Steve Parish as I do, that he would not be sympathetic to a player that came and said: 'Look, I have serious reservations about playing'".
