Allardyce’s depature was a shock, says Palace legend McGoldrick

Crystal Palace legend Eddie McGoldrick said he was shocked on hearing of manager Sam Allardyce’s departure, but believes the former boss has rebuilt his reputation after his short-lived stint as England boss.

Allardyce guided the Eagles to Premier League safety after taking charge in December, succeeding Alan Pardew as manager.

It was the 62-year-old’s first role after leaving his post as England boss after just 67 days.

McGoldrick, who played for Palace between 1988 and 1993, admitted he thought the south Londoners would be able to build a foundation under Allardyce and progress up the league.

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“It was a big shock,” he said. “I thought by staying up we’d push on, get Mamadou Sakho in, get another three or four in, we’d look at mid-table, top ten or top eight next year,” the former midfielder said.

“So I was disappointed – but that’s Palace – when you support Palace it’s a rollercoaster from one week, from one year to the next.

“We wish Sam well and we can understand his reasoning. He has his credibility back, and I think there were some health issues mentioned – he just wants to enjoy himself, so we wish him all the best.

“I wish him well, he kept us up and that was the most important thing.

“He was brought in to do that – I was hoping he could build on it but that’s the way it is.”