Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson tips defender Gary Cahill for 'excellent' managerial career

Gary Cahill has impressed since arriving at Crystal Palace on a free transfer last summer
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Roy Hodgson has backed Gary Cahill to become an "excellent" manager should he decide to move into coaching once his playing days are over.

The Crystal Palace defender, signed on a free transfer after he left Chelsea last year, has been one of Hodgson's players of the season at Selhurst Park, but could well have been part of the visiting contingent in south London on Monday night.

Sean Dyche and Burnley were repeatedly linked with a move for the former England international as soon as his services became available, though having worked with Cahill during his time as Three Lions boss, Hodgson always had the advantage over other suitors.

“It was lucky to know him and to know his qualities," Hodgson said ahead of Monday's Premier League clash at Selhurst Park.

“When we had the opportunity to bring him in, there was no hesitation on my part because I know what a good player he is, but also what a good character and leader he is.

“For me, it was very much a question of just hoping we could beat off the competition for his signature and persuade him to stay in the southern part of England and play for us."

Cahill has been fit and available for most of a season in which Palace have been hampered by injury problems.

At 34, his age does not appear to hinder his performances, but it is only natural to look towards what will come next.

“After his career, I see absolutely no reason why he won’t go on to be an excellent coach and manager if that’s the line he wants to go down," said Hodgson. “More and more, players these days have more opportunities when they stop playing.

And Eagles boss Roy Hodgson believes the experienced defender will make an excellent manager in future
2020 Pool

“They can go down the traditional route which has existed for players for many years. First, you play for as long as you can, then you start off as a coach and then hopefully you become a manager off the back of that.

“But there are players today that decide, ‘I’m not going to go down that route because there are other opportunities open for me to use what I’ve learned in the game’.

“But I do know one thing, that if Gary wants to be a coach and a manager he will turn out to be a very good one.

“I always like to see players who have had good careers and are good characters going into that line of business because it gives something back to football and back to the young players who need their help and education.”

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