Crystal Palace forward Jordan Ayew pays tribute to outgoing boss Roy Hodgson

Jordan Ayew has hailed Roy Hodgson’s influence on his career after the 76-year-old stepped down from his role at Crystal Palace on Monday afternoon.

The former England boss was replaced by 49-year-old Oliver Glasner, who watched on from the stands as Palace picked up a point in their 1-1 draw at Everton.

Ayew made 133 appearances under Hodgson across his two spells as Palace boss, scoring 17 times and picking up 15 assists.

Ghanaian international Ayew scored Palace’s opening goal at Goodison Park with an effort from outside the box that flew past Jordan Pickford.

He told BBC: “After a big week, it’s not been easy – a lot of emotion, things said and things happening,”

“We managed to get a point and we’re really happy with the point.

“I can’t thank him [Hodgson] enough. 

“He’s made me who I am today, as a player and as a man.

“I came to this football club because he decided to bring me in with sporting director] Dougie Freedman and [chairman] Steve Parish.

“He’s been so influential in my career and I can’t thank him enough.

“I spoke with him before the game and, for me, he’s a father figure – there is no doubt about that.

“I hope he recovers as soon as possible. Life goes on and we need to defend the football club – that’s what we’re doing.”