Roy Hodgson has taken up a very difficult task at Crystal Palace.

The former England boss challenged with keeping the Eagles in the Premier League following a dismal start to the season which saw former manager Frank de Boer sacked.

Hodgson’s men are rock-bottom and six points from safety, and big changes may be required in January if the London side are to avoid a return to the second tier after a prolonged Premier League spell.

Hodgson could turn to the division he is trying to avoid in January to bolster his squad ahead of what is set to be a massive five months for his side, and could target these three players to ensure top flight survival.

 

Aden Flint

The Bristol City stalwart has been linked with moves away from Ashton Gate for some time now, but Hodgson really must ensure he is the man to prise the former Swindon Town man away from Ashton Gate.

A true leader at the back, Flint’s aerial ability is arguably the best in the country, and his prowess in both boxes in the air is a weapon any manager across the world game would aspire to possess.

The 28-year-old is ready to take the step to the next level, and it would be a travesty if he never appears in the top flight during his career.

Hodgson must move for the player to bolster his pathetic defence, which is conceding at a rate of two goals per game.

 

Nelson Oliveira

The Eagles have just four goals in eleven games so far this season, and Hodgson needs to add goals if he is to keep the club up this season.

Oliveira is one of the Championship’s deadliest men, and when fit, scores goals for fun.

If Hodgson can snap up the Portuguese international for a fee below £10 million and keep him fit and firing, Palace’s frontline will improve dramatically, and the goals will begin to flow.

 

Stefan Johansen

Fulham midfielder Johansen was phenomenal last season as the Cottagers scored goals for fun and secured a well-deserved play off spot, and it was a surprise that more interest was not shown in the Norwegian's signature in the summer.

Eleven goals and eight assists in only 37 Championship starts last season was a remarkable return for the former Celtic man, and although the Cottagers are struggling this semester, Johansen already has three goals to his name.

Palace have looked feeble in the middle of the park this year and lacking creativity, but by bringing in the impressive 26-year-old, Hodgson would be adding severe class and quality to a squad in need of an injection of ability and desire.