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Holloway defends Hodgson

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Crystal Palace manager Ian Holloway has defended England coach Roy Hodgson’s methods for getting results after recent criticism of the national team boss.

The goalless draw in the World Cup qualifier in Ukraine started a debate about the style and capabilities of the side, with former England captain Gary Lineker condemning the inability to retain possession.

However, Holloway saw the point away from home differently and insisted Hodgson’s predecessor Fabio Capello was viewed as stylish but still could not bring them the success required.

“I am very proud of the lads’ efforts and how Roy managed to come up with that vital point,” said the boss.

“We need two home wins now and we’re qualified. I think that’s fantastic.

“I remember two or three years everybody was hailing this wonderful coach we’ve got from Italy, who was given coach of the year for getting qualified for something in style.

“All of a sudden, that went wrong.”

Lineker insists he has no intention of watering down his opinions when it comes to the national team even if Hodgson was taken aback by it.

“I am surprised that anyone who has played for England, captained England and played in games of this nature can be that critical,” said the England boss.

“If you are prepared to seriously stand there and say the England team I am coaching can’t keep the ball and play out from the back or play through the midfield there is no point having a conversation because we just totally disagree.

Written by George Coomber

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