Roy Hodgson has admitted he’s unsure whether Michy Batshuayi will be back at Selhurst Park next season.
The on-loan Chelsea forward netted twice in the 5-3 win over Bournemouth to end a successful five-month spell under Roy Hodgson.
With five goals in ten appearances the Palace boss admitted he would be keen to see the Belgian, 25, back at the club in August and that he was already aware of his ability before his impressive last outing.
“Our conviction (to sign him) didn't need strengthening it's just not in our hands,” said Hodgson.
“But I do know Michy Batshuayi has been happy with us here, I think that's shown in his football.
“It's been obvious that we appreciate him.
“I took him out of the team for a while because I was a bit unsure with these loan players who are maybe not going to be with us next year and maybe favoured a player who is maybe going to be here next year.”
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Christian Benteke has been finding his way back to form in recent weeks but having picked up a cheekbone injury last week, Hodgson didn’t feel the need to risk the former Liverpool man with Batshuayi available.
Hodgson admitted that he was unsure whether the transfer ban imposed on Chelsea that was upheld during the week will affect any potential deal between he London clubs being struck but was insistent on being keen on the forward.
“All I know is if Michy Batshuayi is going to be available and if our club could bring him here; either on loan again or buying him I would be very happy with that and I know Michy himself would be happy.
“But again, we are talking about things that are totally out of our control.
“What Chelsea's thinking on the subject is I couldn't possibly begin to imagine or to speculate on.”
READ:
Hodgson praise for understated pair in Bournemouth win
Following the 5-3 win the Eagles faithful were all in unison in their thoughts about getting the ‘Bats-man’ back for next season.
We want you to stay
— Mark Jones (@MDJones82) May 12, 2019
We want you to stayyyyy
MICHY BATSHUAYI
WE WANT YOU TO STAY! #cpfc
If we had Michy from the start of the season I reckon he would’ve scored 10-12 goals for us #Cpfc. I say we sign him
— BN (@cpfcbailey) May 12, 2019
Before today, I was content with the prospect of Michy Batshuayi returning to Chelsea. Not anymore. He just comes alive in the box and has averaged a goal every 2 games since signing for us in January. 6 goals in all competitions is a more than good enough return. #CPFC ❤💙 pic.twitter.com/RYj3XrfU6V
— Nick 🦅 (@Nick_CPFC) May 12, 2019
It’s unlikely but signing Michy would be unreal for next season the bloke is deadly #cpfc
— Dan (@DannyGauntlett) May 12, 2019
Michy our most clinical striker since Murray, sign him up! #cpfc
— Chris Derham (@cgderham) May 12, 2019
Michy is an Eagle... Make it permanent ASAP #CPFC
— Kneel or Nile? (@nialljclark) May 12, 2019
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