Roy Hodgson has made a surprise return to football management at the age of 78, taking over as head coach of Championship side Bristol City for the remainder of the season. The former England and Liverpool manager replaces Gerhard Struber, who was sacked after a poor run of form.
Struber was dismissed following a run of just three wins in the club's last 13 league games, which saw Bristol City drop out of play-off contention. The Austrian had been hampered by the January sales of key players, including club captain Zak Vyner and midfielder Anis Mehmeti. The Robins currently sit 16th in the Championship with 51 points.
Hodgson, who previously managed Bristol City in 1982, will oversee the final seven games of the season. He said: 'I have had great conversations with the Board and I am really excited by the opportunity to help until the end of the season. We will get straight to work and look for a positive performance on Good Friday.'
Bristol City CEO Charlie Boss stated: 'Roy's appointment is about more than the results of the next seven games. Over the remainder of the season, he will help us set the standards and values at the club that we will need to be successful going forwards.' The club is also in the process of appointing a sporting director to help recruit a permanent head coach.
Hodgson will meet players and staff on Monday before preparing for the next Championship fixture against Charlton Athletic. This marks his first role since leaving Crystal Palace in February 2024.
