Despite an improved performance, Palace’s defensive frailties and key losses intensify scrutiny on Hodgson’s future.

The pressure on Roy Hodgson continues to mount despite Crystal Palace showing signs of improvement against Chelsea, as their efforts ultimately went unrewarded. Palace fans, already frustrated from a humiliating 4-1 defeat to rivals Brighton, were left feeling aggrieved after former loanee Conor Gallagher’s late strike sealed Chelsea’s win. His celebrations only deepened the pain for the Eagles supporters, who felt their team deserved a better outcome.

Palace’s squad, missing key players such as Eberechi Eze, Michael Olise, and Marc Guehi, put in a better performance overall, especially during the first half, when Jefferson Lerma’s stunning goal gave them a brief lead. Despite being the underdogs, Palace showed heart and grit, especially with the inclusion of talented young players like Matheus Franca and Adam Wharton. Franca, 19, was often dispossessed but posed a real threat with his pace, while Wharton, at 20, showed maturity in his passing and ball recovery.

Yet the game ultimately highlighted Palace’s key issue – defensive fragility. Hodgson’s side had to endure a Chelsea onslaught in the second half, with Gallagher scoring in stoppage time, followed by Enzo Fernandez’s third goal. Palace’s defence, as seen so often this season, was easily breached, and Hodgson’s tactical approach was again questioned.

Although Palace have only won twice in their last 15 games, Hodgson’s reluctance to trust the club’s promising young talent has become another point of contention. He has, however, recently given full Premier League debuts to Franca and Wharton, a bold decision that nearly paid off. But while their performances were encouraging, Palace were still far too open defensively.

The match also underlined the ongoing issue of slow starts. Palace conceded early goals in both halves, with Gallagher scoring just 81 seconds into the second period. This lack of defensive discipline, coupled with Palace’s inability to hold onto their lead, led to yet another frustrating result for Hodgson and his team.

Currently sitting 15th in the Premier League, Palace are still only five points above the relegation zone. The fans will surely be wondering if Hodgson can turn things around, especially as they face further pressure with each disappointing result. Despite their hunger and desire, the Eagles seem incapable of maintaining consistency, leaving Hodgson’s future at Selhurst Park uncertain.