Roy Hodgson reacts to Crystal Palace finishing above Chelsea for the first time in Premier League history

Crystal Palace’s 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest on Sunday saw the Eagles pick up a point in their final game of the season and finish above Chelsea in the Premier League table. 

Forest took the lead in the first half when Taiwo Awoniyi raced onto Morgan Gibbs-White’s through ball, chopped past Joachim Andersen and fired beyond Sam Johnstone.

Palace equalised in the 66th minute when Michael Olise chipped the ball into Will Hughes, and the former Watford man stooped beyond Willy Boly to head past Wayne Hennessey.

The Eagles finished 11th in the Premier League and above London rivals Chelsea – it’s the first time in the competition’s history the Eagles have recorded a better league position than the west Londoners.

“An 11th placed [finish] for Palace always in any season is more than acceptable,” said the 75-year-old.

“At the moment, that’s where we want to be, at least.

“We can always hope that we have a better season in the seasons to come and get beyond that and into the top half of the table.

“But there is always going to be a gap between the clubs who spend £200, £300 or £400million on putting their playing staff together, and their only interest is getting into the Champions League, otherwise it’s a disaster.

“I have got to hope that the club and our fans realise it’s one hell of an ask.

“But it’s not a hell of an ask to say: ‘You’re finishing around the 10th or 11th positions in the league – you can perhaps go higher than that.’

“And certainly, in a good season, I know we will.

“But the season should be regarded as a very satisfying one for the club.

“Patrick [Vieira] should take a bow as well. He had all the pre-season and did all the work in the pre-season. Some very good players have come into the club during his time here.

“So, as far as I’m concerned, I share any success you think the club might have had this season with him.”