Ghana captain Jordan Ayew has hailed former Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson as the best manager he has ever worked with, citing their strong bond and the veteran coach’s influence on his career.
Ayew, who joined Palace in 2018 on loan before securing a permanent move, spent most of his time at the club under Hodgson.
The two developed a close relationship, with the forward likening the Englishman to a father figure.
Speaking to Joy Sports, the 33-year-old praised Hodgson’s deep understanding of his game, saying, “He just understood me. He knew what I needed at any time. He was like a father figure to me, like a grandfather.”
Beyond football, Ayew credited Hodgson for offering valuable life advice and shaping his career trajectory. “He gave me a really, really good view of who I am as a player, what I could do, and where my strengths were,” he added.
The Black Stars forward also highlighted Hodgson’s loyalty, stating that such qualities are rare in modern football. “He was, and is, a loyal manager. And that loyalty, you don’t find a lot in football.”
Jordan Ayew joined Leicester City from Palace in the summer after nearly a decade with the Eagles.