Hodgson has been attacked for failing to give opportunities to some of the Crystal Palace squad’s youthful prospects, as well as hurrying Olise back from injury excessively and aggravating his new ailment.
However, it appears that he may finally be able to provide greater opportunities to some of the Crystal Palace squad’s young prospects, with his hand forced by injuries to Olise and Eberechi Eze, who will miss the next few games.
Hodgson hinted about potential for Matheus Franca and Naouirou Ahamada.
Speaking at a press conference, Hodgson stated that Matheus Franca and Naouirou Ahamada may now have greater possibilities.
“Our squad is getting so much smaller and they play in the area where we are missing players,” he said.
“Both [Ahamada and França] have benefitted from time here.”They are gaining a better knowledge of what we are attempting to do, and their game is continually improving. Now, when they get the chance, they must fully realize that.
“França has got more opportunities than Ahamada, but when they have came on in recent games, they have been sharp, lively, and have demonstrated an understanding of what we are trying to do.
Many Palace fans will be skeptical that Hodgson is willing to offer both players more playing time despite the squad’s problems, given how much he has previously overlooked them.
Both players might bring new energy to the team, while Franca could replace some of Olise’s creativity on the wing.
Franca normally played in center attacking midfield or on the left wing in Brazil before his move, but he could play on the right in Olise’s absence.
With Eze and Marc Guehi out, new recruit Adam Wharton may play in midfield, Chris Richards in the defense, and Ahamada in the middle beside the former Blackburn star.
While this may be wishful thinking, Hodgson has very few options right now, and the club could benefit from the two lesser-known players getting rare opportunities to shine.
