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Crystal Palace defender Joel Ward has revealed that the club’s players were shocked to learn of the decision to sack Patrick Vieira as manager.
Patrick Vieira was sacked last Friday after failing to record a single victory in his last 12 games in charge. A poor run that stretches back to December.
Vieira was instrumental in guiding the club to a 12th-placed finish last season but the wretched form shown in recent weeks, including four consecutive games without a goal saw the club hierarchy pull the trigger.
Crystal Palace players surprised by Vieira's exit
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Despite the struggles, it is understood Vieira maintained excellent relationships with his players and he commanded respect right till the very end.
All of that made the decision to relieve him of his services come as a shock to the dressing room.
“I think anything like that comes as a bit of a surprise,” defender, Joel Ward said.
“The tough thing in football is that it’s a results business and we had a tough run of games and the hierarchy have made the decision about the direction they want to go.
“We have to respect that and make sure as a club right from the top, fans to players, we all get together and take care of business.
“Ultimately we’re the only ones that can do that on the pitch so we have to stand up and be accountable for that.”
Big picture for Crystal Palace
Under-21 coach Paddy McCarthy was in the dugout for Sunday’s shambolic 4-1 defeat away at Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Former manager Roy Hodgson is one of those in contention to replace Vieira and if he does get the job, he will have just 10 games to try to avoid relegation.
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