‘The decision was his’ – Roy Hodgson reacts as Michael Olise shuns Chelsea to pen new Crystal Palace deal

Roy Hodgson confirmed that it was Michael Olise’s decision to shun interest from Chelsea to pen a new-four year deal at Crystal Palace.

Chairman Steve Parish announced on Thursday afternoon that Michael Olise had signed a new deal with the club.

Olise recorded 11 assists last season in the Premier League. He will miss the next handful of Premier League outings with a hamstring injury he picked up on international duty with France’s U21 side.

“It’s the best possible news we could have,” Hodgson said. 

“I had been concerned – it’s always concerning when a club of Chelsea’s stature take interest in a player, and people will suggest that a move to them might be the best bet.

“I had always hoped that wouldn’t be the case and that Michael would realise that at such a young age, his future here is very bright, and we can help him move very quickly on to another level.

“I am delighted for the club, and I must congratulate Steve Parish and Dougie Freedman on the fantastic job they have done in persuading him that, even though there was pressure from outside, that: ‘This is your place and this is where we think you will progress in the right way and develop in the right way’.

“As a coach and manager, it’s perfect. I really enjoyed the 10 games last year – the squad was looking really interesting.

“To lose Wilf Zaha first, and then possibly Olise, would have changed my perception of it all.

“It’s a red-letter day.”