Paddy McCarthy answers whether he wants the Crystal Palace job permanently

Crystal Palace interim boss Paddy McCarthy says he had not had time to consider whether he would like the job on a full-time basis.

McCarthy – in charge of the club’s U21 side – took interim charge for the 4-1 defeat in north London after Patrick Vieira was sacked on Friday morning.

The Eagles lost 4-1 at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, with goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Granit Xhaka and a double from Bukayo Saka giving the league leaders all three points.

Jeffrey Schlupp scored Palace’s only goal – ending their run of four straight Premier League games without a goal – in the 63rd minute.

The South London Press understands that Roy Hodgson is a serious candidate to land the job for the rest of the season.

“Is it something I’m interested in? I’m interested in doing whatever the football club want me to do,” said McCarthy.

“I have been here 15 years, so whatever the football club need me to do at this moment in time, I will do it.”

The former Palace defender made 151 appearances for the South Londoners as a player and captained the club during his playing career.

Speaking about the occasion, McCarthy said: “I have continuously pushed all the emotion to the side. My sole focus has been preparing the team and getting the team organised.

“I had to do a job for the football club and that’s what I have done.

“Everything was about preparing the team for the day. I haven’t had any time since Friday morning to think about anything other than sorting the team out.

“I haven’t had any conversations [with the board].”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD