It's officially official, Crystal Palace are on the hunt for a new manager for next season after it was confirmed Roy Hodgson will leave the club when his contract expires.
The 73-year-old has been in charge for the last four years but will leave the club after establishing the Eagles as a solid mid-table Premier League outfit.
It's the job of chairman Steve Parish to now lead the club into a brighter future, though whoever comes in through the Selhurst Park managerial doors may have a baptism of fire awaiting them. Palace have a number of first team players out of contract this summer, have lost Eberechi Ezi to long-term injury and also have the oldest average squad (28) in the Premier League.
Plenty of names have been linked with the role, but identifying the best fit is an entirely different story. Here, 90min ranks the runners and riders.
7. Scott Parker
During his playing days it felt like Scott Parker played for every London club ever, except for Crystal Palace. So why not make the move there as a manager?
Parker has impressed as manager of Fulham, even though his side have been relegated this season. He's implemented a good style of play, plays young players and isn't afraid to make big decisions.
But after seeing the Cottagers back into the Championship he's likely to display some loyalty and stick with the west Londoners for now.
Suitability: 3/10
6. Steven Gerrard
Picture it now, the former Liverpool skipper returning to the site of 'Crystanbul' to make some positive memories for himself.
Gerrard has completed his Scottish Premiership mission, winning the league and completing the season unbeaten to end Celtic's dominance. He could look to build a dynasty, or he could look to test himself in the biggest league in the world.
Unfortunately for Palace, Rangers can offer Champions League football next season and Stevie G is likely to want to try his hand there first before chucking himself in at the deep end again. He'd be a great coup for Palace, but it's likely a non-runner.
Suitability: 4/10
5. Chris Wilder
Wilder was sensational in his first season with Sheffield United in the Premier League, leading them to a ninth placed finish after fighting for European football up until the enforced Covid-19 break.
But after that time away, his side struggled hugely - though his style of play and recruitment nouse showed he can hack it in the Premier League with a better, more capable squad.
He's free to be hired after leaving the Blades and has a more attacking style than Hodgson - though Palace's squad may need a reshuffle to accommodate him.
Suitability: 5/10
4. Eddie Howe
Eddie Howe has plenty of Premier League experience, likes his side to play an attractive brand of football, uses young talent and has a point to prove after Bournemouth's whirlwind journey in the top flight came to an end little over a year ago.
There are some flaws, though. The Cherries conceded a lot of goals under Howe's watch, a stark contrast to the stodgy and hard to beat nature installed by Hodgson over the years.
He's also wanted by Celtic, and the lure of managing one of the biggest clubs in the world may trump a Premier League return - even if the finances say otherwise.
Suitability: 6/10
3. Sean Dyche
The husky-voiced Burnley boss has been linked with a move away from Turf Moor for a while now, but he continues to keep them in the Premier League despite a lowly budget and limited squad size.
A move to south London could be tempting for him, with a bigger budget and players like Wilfried Zaha and Eze to work with. He's shown that he can improve players, the only question is whether Palace should be looking for a more progressive manager.
Still, you know what you're getting with Dyche and it's guaranteed stability.
Suitability: 7/10
2. Frank Lampard
Chelsea's former boss has a point to prove after being sacked earlier this season, and Palace could be the perfect place for him to rebuild and restock.
Lampard likes bringing through young talent and blending them with seasoned professionals, something Palace could probably do if one or two key signings are made.
Good work at Derby in his first season as a manager has been slightly overshadowed by his Chelsea departure, and Lampard is likely to be given more time at Selhurst Park - unless he goes peak Frank de Boer with results.
Suitability: 7/10
1. Steve Cooper
A former England youth team coach, Cooper is now at Swansea and been a revelation, leading them to the Championship play-offs.
Cooper is a huge advocate of playing possession based attacking football, while he's also - because of his roots - keen on bringing young players into the first team fold. That's a complete contrast to what Palace have right now, making the challenge even more appealing.
He's the bookies favourite, but it may be a case of too much too soon - particularly if the Swans earn promotion. Still, best to pick up the phone and give it a go.
Suitability: 8/10
Source: 90min
