Steve Cooper’s preferred next club revealed as he is linked with both Crystal Palace and Birmingham

4 months ago 40

CRYSTAL PALACE are trying to tie up a deal with Steve Cooper to become the next manager – even if Roy Hodgson sees out the rest of the season.

The South London club want to make the ex-Nottingham Forest gaffer their next boss but are aware they are not the only admirers.

Steve Cooper was sacked by Nottingham Forest but is being lined up for a rapid return[/caption]

As revealed by SunSport, Birmingham City are planning an “audacious” bid should Wayne Rooney’s dismal run of form continue.

He is also attracting interest from clubs abroad.

But those close to Cooper, 44, believe he is keen to stay in the Premier League and would be “open minded” to a move to Selhurst Park.

Explaining how a deal with the Eagles might work, the source said: “Palace are very interested in Steve Cooper, but there are no immediate plans to part ways with Roy Hodgson.

“Roy’s a legend at the club and will be treated with the respect he’s earned and which he merits.

“One option being looked at is whether a deal can be agreed for Cooper to join in the summer and for Hodgson to stay on until then.

“But if results continue to go in the wrong direction the plans could change but the ideal scenario is Roy sees out this season and Steve comes in after that.”

Hodgson, 76, is under increasing pressure at Crystal Palace with some at the club even feeling Saturday’s clash with Brentford could be his last chance.

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Frustration is growing after a run of eight games without a win has left Palace just three points above the relegation zone.

During that run Hodgson’s squad has been hard-hit by injury while they ran Liverpool close and came from two goals down to snatch a draw at champions Manchester City.

Cooper is the favourite to replace the veteran boss should a change be made at Selhurst Park and it has been revealed the Eagles would not have to pay compensation to Nottingham Forest after they sacked the Welshman.

However, there is a split between senior figures at Palace over who would be the ideal replacement for Hodgson.

Former Eintracht Frankfurt manager Oliver Glasner, who won the Europa League with the German club, is also well-liked and is currently available after leaving the Bundesliga side in June.