Under pressure at Crystal Palace, Pierre Sage is on borrowed time. The French coach must quickly rectify the defensive situation of his team, which has the worst record in the Premier League with 17 goals conceded in seven days. The heavy defeat against Brighton (5-0) on Sunday increased concerns, a few days after a setback against Olympique Lyonnais (3-2) in the Europa League. With just seven points on the clock, the Eagles are preparing to face Newcastle and Liverpool before the next international break. A series which could prove decisive for the future of the 47-year-old technician.
“I would like to apologize to the supporters, because it is unusual to see our club show such a face against another club, and we are not at the level we hoped for. My future? I don’t know”assured Sage. But according to The TimesLondon leaders have already considered several options in the event of another change of coach, just a few months after the departure of Oliver Glasner. Among the popular profiles is Kieran McKenna, currently without a club after leaving Ipswich Town in June.
Ultimatum for Pierre Sage this weekend?
A possible recruitment could, however, be expensive for Crystal Palace, since his former club could claim compensation linked to the last year of his contract, estimated at 9 million euros in July. Another name mentioned, that of Frank Lampard, who would have several admirers within the management of the Eagles. Crystal Palace have also reportedly expressed an interest in Sean Dyche in the past, but his style of play arouses reluctance among some supporters. So many avenues that bear witness to the thinking carried out behind the scenes.
For the moment, the Frenchman therefore retains a chance of redressing the situation, but he will have to quickly find solutions to stabilize his rearguard. His defensive system, higher than that of his predecessor, exposed certain weaknesses, while injuries and suspensions complicated the situation. Sage also wanted to recruit faster central defenders after the departure of Maxence Lacroix to Chelsea, but several avenues fell through. Management is now expecting an immediate reaction, while relations are already strained with Pierre Sage.
