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40-year-old could now replace Roy Hodgson at Crystal Palace as sources raise doubts over Steve Cooper

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Paddy McCarthy could be elevated into the Crystal Palace hotseat to replace Roy Hodgson as a problem arises involving Steve Cooper.

That is according to the Daily Mail.

So, what is the latest on Roy Hodgson‘s future at Crystal Palace? Let’s take a look…

Crystal Palace face Steve Cooper problem

Well, the 44-year-old appears to be our No.1 option to replace the 76-year-old.

The Evening Standard claimed that Steve Parish is expected to reopen talks with Cooper after a summer interview as pressure builds on Hodgson, following a run of just one win in 12 outings.

Now, however – according to the Daily Mail – the Welshman is considering a short break from football to recharge his batteries, having only just been sacked by Nottingham Forest.

As a result, McCarthy could be promoted after the 40-year-old impressed club chiefs in his role as part of Hodgson’s backroom staff.

There is one positive regarding Cooper, as the Daily Mail believe no compensation would be owed to Nottingham Forest.

Crystal Palace v Nottingham Forest - Premier League
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The Pontypridd-born coach would be free to appoint and can begin work immediately, as he is not currently engaged in a period of gardening leave.

Kieran McKenna of Ipswich is also mentioned in the Daily Mail’s story – although it would be hard to prise the Londoner away from Portman Road with the Tractor Boys sitting second in the Championship.

Steve Parish cannot hire Paddy McCarthy

In our view, a completely new face is needed – things have gone stale under the management of Hodgson, Ray Lewington and McCarthy.

It would be a major gamble to hire the Irishman – who has never held a senior role as a manager in football – amid a time where relegation is a real possibility if things do not improve after the January break.

Arsenal FC v Crystal Palace - Premier League
Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

By all means, Parish can ask if Cooper – who Marc Guehi rates highly – McKenna or another fresh face would like to keep McCarthy on board and allow him to continue his coaching development.

However, at this moment in time, the man from Dublin’s apprenticeship – if you will – should be the least of our concerns.

Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Hodgson is seemingly on the verge of receiving his P45 at Selhurst Park – Saturday’s clash against Brentford at Selhurst Park could be the last chance saloon.