Lewington gives dugout insight as he talks through sideline instructions

In the dying minutes of Crystal Palace’s final game of 2019/20, one voice can be heard reverberating off Selhurst Park’s iron surrounds above all. It’s Ray Lewington’s, and, after nine matches in an intense 37 days, Palace’s assistant manager remains as vocal as ever.

Or - until football moved behind closed doors, the TV microphones edged nearer to the dugouts and the sport’s previously anonymous instructions became public information - Lewington became more vocal than any supporter knew.

The club’s former caretaker manager became renowned in recent weeks for his constant dialogue with the players. Throughout a clash’s 90 minutes, Lewington’s encouragement, direction and approval can be heard…