Roy Hodgson Returns to Football Management at 78 with Bristol City

Roy Hodgson, the veteran English football manager, has made a remarkable return to the sport at the age of 78. He has taken on an interim managerial role at Bristol City for the final seven games of the Championship season. Hodgson, who managed Crystal Palace until February 2024, was tempted out of retirement by Richard Scudamore, the former Premier League chief executive.

Hodgson insists that he does not require a 'crutch' to manage the team, despite his advanced age. He believes that his general health is good, and he is probably fitter now than when he left Palace. Hodgson mentioned that he has been doing a lot of work at home, including using a gym and walking, which has helped him lose 5-6kg.

The 78-year-old manager acknowledged that he must be cautious about the strains of the job, referencing the recent collapse of 80-year-old Romania head coach Mircea Lucescu. Hodgson joked that he has no intention of 'dying on the bench' like Jock Stein and will take necessary precautions to ensure his well-being.

Hodgson's return to Bristol City comes 44 years after he was sacked by the club in 1982. He described his time at the club as a 'fond memory,' despite the financial difficulties they faced back then. Hodgson's second spell at Bristol City begins with a match against Charlton on Good Friday.

The veteran manager's decision to return to football was influenced by conversations with his former assistant Ray Lewington. Hodgson emphasized that he aims to enjoy this period and will assess whether he has made the right decision after facing challenges ahead.