Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson presided over a win over Manchester United at Old Trafford this past weekend.
You can never take it for granted Manchester United will beat Crystal Palace at home in the Premier League. The 1-0 loss at Old Trafford this weekend was the fifth consecutive season United have failed to do so.
Credit to Palace who defended well after Joachim Andersen scored in the first half.
United’s 3-0 Carabao Cup win earlier in the week seemed like a distant memory as United struggled to create chances.
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Hodgson on Casemiro
Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson was proud of his team’s victory, especially after losing so easily to United in midweek.
Speaking to their official website, Hodgson explained that he felt Palace were able to influence Manchester United’s tactics, and Casemiro‘s positioning.
He said: “The shape from the start and the pressurising from the start, as opposed to the other night – which was a totally different team to be fair – I thought we put players under a lot more pressure on the ball.
“Casemiro dropped deep and they were finding it harder to hit the passes they were hitting against us on Tuesday, and as a result it was easier for our defenders.”
Casemiro lacked influence
The numbers backed up what Hodgson was saying. Casemiro completed only 81 per cent of his passes, and 59 in total.
In the midweek win, he completed 89 per cent of his passes, and 100 in total. He also scored a goal and provided an assist.
Palace restricted his ability to influence the game, and it was part of their plan.
“It’s not rocket science,” Hodgson added. A message which spells trouble for United, if other opposing managers follow his lead.
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